HC Deb 02 March 1981 vol 1000 c13
12. Mr. D. E. Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make and publish a study of the effects on the education services in Wales of local authority expenditure policies for the financial year 1980–81.

Mr. Michael Roberts

My right hon. Friend expects to receive shortly a report from Her Majesty's Inspectorate in Wales and will make it available as soon as practicable.

Mr. Thomas

Will the Minister explain why this report has been delayed and why the comparable report of Her Majesty's Inspectorate in England is already available to the House?

Mr. Roberts

Although the Principality does many things in unison with England, I am sure that the hon. Member for Merioneth (Mr. Thomas) will be pleased to note that this was a separate inquiry which started last September and that we expect the report within a fortnight.

Mr. Thomas

Rubbish.

Mr. Roberts

The hon. Gentleman says"Rubbish" from a sedentary position. What is rubbish is the nonsense which appeared in the Western Mail earlier this week.

Mr. Carter-Jones

Will the Minister give a firm commitment to the effect that, Ewhen the Government review the procedures, there will be no cuts whatsoever in education facilities for handicapped children in Wales

Mr. Roberts

I can give no such assurance, because the decision will be made by the local education authorities.