HC Deb 16 February 1982 vol 18 cc135-6
16. Mr. Greenway

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will issue a circular to schools giving guidance to local education authorities on methods of dealing with violent pupils or parents.

Sir Keith Joseph

I deplore the use of violence and I stand ready to give my support to local education authorities and schools in their efforts to curb it. I have no evidence at present that local education authorities look to me for detailed guidance.

Mr. Greenway

Has my right hon. Friend seen the second report of the Select Committee on Education, Science and Arts, which was issued this morning? The fourth recommendation states that the head, staff and the governors should have freedom to determine the disciplinary policy and practice of a school. Does my right hon. Friend agree that in that way discipline may be returned to individual schools and that will strengthen a school's individuality and the way in which it caters for the needs of particular children?

Sir Keith Joseph

I have not yet seen the report, but I shall study its recommendations and analysis with great interest.

Mr. Adley

On the assumption that my right hon. Friend is familiar with the contents of the Criminal Justice Bill, will he take an early opportunity to discuss its implications with education authorities and particularly the emphasis placed on parents being responsible for their children's criminal activities? Will he ensure that that information is disseminated as widely as possible?

Sir Keith Joseph

I cannot give that assurance, but I can undertake to inform myself about the implications of my hon. Friend's suggestion.