HC Deb 09 July 1980 vol 988 cc523-5
3. Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what conclusions he has reached on the future arrangements for the training of teachers in Scotland.

The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Alexander Fletcher)

My right hon. Friend will make a statement on the future of the colleges as soon as possible.

Mr. Foulkes

Is the Minister aware that there is great concern about the delay in considering this issue? Is he further aware that there is alarm at the fact that there will be no consultation paper? In fairness to the staff of those colleges, and out of courtesy to hon. Members, will he confirm that he will make an oral statement, and not hide behind a written answer?

Mr. Fletcher

Extensive consultation has taken place over the past year. It is now time to reach some conclusions. When they are announced, we shall continue to listen to the views of those in the colleges and to the views of Opposition Members.

Mr. Bill Walker

While the review is in progress, will my hon. Friend bear in mind that we do not want a surplus of teachers screaming that they cannot find jobs?

Mr. Fletcher

As my hon. Friend has suggested, it is in the interests of student teachers that a proper balance is maintained during the next 10 years over input to colleges and the best use of the colleges' resources.

Mr. Gordon Wilson

On reflection, does not the Minister feel that it is wrong that decisions should be made about the future of the colleges without any consultation with the staff association? Will he give a pledge that he will consult it before he takes any decision that might effect the livelihoods of its members?

Mr. Fletcher

Consultations, including consultations with the staff association, have already taken place.

Mr. Lang

When my hon. Friend prepares his statement, will he consider the interests of the smaller colleges, and particularly the high quality of Craigie college? Is he aware that applications to that college have always exceeded quota intakes and that it has great success in placing qualified teachers? Is he further aware that there is a high degree of co-operation about community work, social work and in-service training throughout South-West Scotland?

Mr. Fletcher

I am well aware of those points.

Mr. Lambie

Will the Minister reconsider his decision not to issue a consultative document on the future of training colleges in Scotland, in order to allow more time before any final decisions are taken?

Mr. Fletcher

There will be time between the Government's announcement on the future of the colleges and the expression of views by those in the colleges, the education establishment in Scotland and Opposition Members.