HC Deb 21 July 1976 vol 915 cc1787-8
15. Mr. Alexander Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what evidence he has that the standard of education in Scottish schools has improved in recent years.

Mr. Millan

The evidence is a steady increase in the numbers of school leavers with SCE qualifications and in the numbers of young people entering higher education, improved staffing and better school buildings and the reports of Her Majesty's inspectors.

Mr. Fletcher

Is the Minister aware that he has not answered the question about standards? Published evidence in England has shown that standards are falling seriously. Has he any reason to believe—leaving aside the granting of certificates, which have proved to be irrelevant in England—that there is any evidence to show that the situation in Scotland is any better or even any different from that in England?

Mr. Millan

I am not responsible for what happens in England and Wales, but I do not necessarily accept some of the criticisms made by the hon. Member about what is happening there. If he has any evidence of deteriorating standards in Scotland he should let me know. I cannot understand why he seems to be dismayed that we are keeping up and improving the standards of Scottish education.