§ 14. Mr. Flanneryasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what percentage of children are now receiving secondary education in comprehensive schools; and what was the percentage in 1970, 1974 and 1978, respectively.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneIn January 1980, the latest date for which information is available, 88 per cent. of pupils in maintained secondary schools were attending comprehensive schools. Proportions for the earlier years were: 31 per cent. in 1970, 61 per cent. in 1974 and 83 per cent. in 1978.
§ Mr. FlanneryDoes the Minister not realise that, despite all the Conservative Party's attacks on comprehensive education, and despite the assisted places scheme—which represents an attack on comprehensive education—the system is getting better and better and is now more acceptable to our people? Will the hon. Gentleman publicly state that, given those facts, the Conservative Party intends to expand comprehensive education even further?
§ Mr. MacfarlaneIt is very much a matter for local education authorities. The hon. Gentleman should not let his blind prejudice take him everywhere.