§ 2. Sir William van Straubenzeeasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he intends to commence consultations on the proposals in his recent White Paper on teacher training.
§ The Secretary of State for Education and Science (Sir Keith Joseph)The policies announced in "Teaching Quality" followed extensive consultation. I shall be discussing their implementation with representatives of the local education authorities tomorrow.
§ Sir William van StraubenzeeDoes my right hon. Friend appreciate that one of the most welcome aspects of this remarkable White Paper is the emphasis on associating more fully teachers in active practice with the training of teachers? Will there be further consultations on that aspect, or have there been sufficient?
§ Sir Keith JosephSo far we have had no requests to discuss policies on teaching quality outside the Advisory Committee on the Supply and Education of Teachers forum, but if any are made we shall be ready to consider them.
§ Mr. Christopher PriceWill the Secretary of State help me to solve a puzzle? Some hon. Members thought that the right hon. Gentleman was interested in allowing market forces to run. If so, why does he insist in the White Paper on prescribing to local authorities and schools the exact qualifications that teachers must have rather than trusting those at the grass roots to hire the best people?
§ Sir Keith JosephIf the hon. Gentleman had read the White Paper with care he would have found that no precise prescription is laid down. All that I do—I am justified 715 in doing so—is to ask local education authorities to pay attention to teachers' qualifications in matching the needs of the curriculum.