§ 21. Mr. Andrew MacKayasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the procedure for dismissing teachers.
§ Sir Keith JosephProcedures for the dismissal of teachers are a matter for local education authorities and other employers. They should be used whenever it is necessary in the best interests of pupils.
§ Mr. MacKayDoes my right hon. Friend agree that we shall improve the standards of education in schools only if it is easier for authorities to dismiss that minority of teachers who are inefficient and incompetent?
§ Sir Keith JosephIt is possible, even though laborious, for that to be done now. I must simultaneously pay tribute to the majority of teachers who do a good job.