HC Deb 04 July 1979 vol 969 cc1363-4
12. Mr. John Mackay

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his policy regarding the increasing use of English CSE mode 3 examinations in Scottish schools.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

The use of these examinations in Scotland is a matter for individual education authorities.

Mr. Mackay

Does my hon. Friend realise that the increasing use of the CSE mode 3 shows that there is a demand in Scottish schools for an examination below the level of the CSE O-level? Although he may not wish to go as far as the Dunning committee recommends, will he consider asking the Scottish certificate of education examination board to consider introducing an examination below O-level grade in certain specified subjects such as English and arithmetic?

Mr. Fletcher

I appreciate my hon. Friend's argument. I am sure that he will agree that until decisions have been made on the Munn and Dunning reports it will be difficult to take the matter any further. I agree that a considerable delay has taken place since the reports were commissioned in January 1975. My right hon. Friend will make a statement on the matter as soon as possible.