HC Deb 30 October 1984 vol 65 c1144
1. Mr. Boyes

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what information his Department has received on the level of local authority spending on education in 1984–85 as compared with the level implied in the calculations used to determine aggregate rate support grant.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education and Science (Mr. Bob Dunn)

Local authorities' budget estimates for expenditure on education, including meals and milk in 1984–85, imply a level of spending something over 7 per cent. above the 1984–85 RSG settlement figure.

Mr. Boyes

Is the Minister aware that many local authorities, including Conservative-controlled ones are concerned that they cannot provide adequate levels of education services because of the Government's disastrous, disgraceful and diabolical squeeze on education finances? [HON. MEMBERS: "More."] It is all very well for the public school lads on the Conservative Benches to laugh about this Even more important is that the Secretary of State's advisers, Her Majesty's inspectors, have expressed considerable concern about the education services.

Mr. Dunn

Expenditure on schools by local education authorities has fallen far less rapidly since 1979 than pupil numbers, which declined by 50 per cent. over the period. Expenditure per pupil in real terms has risen each year and is now at a record level. It is important to spend more efficiently than to spend more money.

Mr. Fisher

Will the Minister make a statement on the report that some Conservative-controlled authorities, which have not been providing reasonable resources for education in their budgets, are to submit a report to him criticising Her Majesty's Inspectorate?

Mr. Dunn

That does not fall within this question. However, the effect of rate support grant settlements on education will depend on the ability of local education authorities to use their resources efficiently. Many authorities could do much more and do it so much better.

Mr. Radice

Why has the Minister become involved in such an obviously partisan attack on HMI, which is the Secretary of State's advisory body? If the Minister wants to help Conservative local authorities by helping them to avoid the embarrassment of critical HMI reports, why does he not give them more resources?

Mr. Dunn

The hon. Genlleman is referring to a matter which has been aired in the press. I am prepared to meet representatives from any political party on any education matter. Even the Socialist Education Association will receive a hearing from me if it has anything reasonable to say, but it will have to be reasonable.