HC Deb 07 April 1981 vol 2 cc804-5
10. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how much was spent per pupil in primary schools in England in each of the past three years, at constant prices.

Dr. Boyson

Net recurrent expenditure at 1980 survey prices for children of primary school age was £375 in 1977–78, £406 in 1978–79 and £422 in 1979–80.

Mr. Knox

Does my hon. Friend agree that, if there is a connection between standards and the amount spent on education, there is no reason why standards should have fallen in the past three years but strong reasons why they should have risen?

Dr. Boyson

That is true. The intention is to increase expenditure for each child of primary school age to £427 this year and to £432 in 1983–4. As primary school expenditure per child has increased by 64 per cent. in 20 years, we should expect good standards.

Mr. Allen McKay

As lack of finance has caused primary schools to close in my constituency of Penistone, will the Minister meet parents to discuss the problem?

Dr. Boyson

I imagine that the fall in the birth rate has caused the closures. If schools were full, they would not close. If the hon. Gentleman writes to us, we shall be glad to meet a delegation.