§ 15. Mr. KnoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he has any plans to change the procedures concerning school closures; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. KnoxDoes my hon. Friend think it right that some schools should be under almost continuous threat of closure? Is he aware that Waterhouses and Warslow middle schools in my constituency, both of which were opened a mere seven years ago, are under threat of closure for the second time? Is that fair? What chance have those schools ever had?
§ Mr. DunnHow a local education authority reacts to a situation in which it may have to take schools out of use is a matter for the local education authority. My hon. Friend can make his point during the objection process to proposals that affect the future of a school or schools.
§ Mr. SkinnerWill schools that are threatened with closure be able to opt out?
§ Mr. DunnA school that is threatened with closure can apply to be considered for grant-maintained status alongside the proposals to close. We shall, of course, consider the application to opt out first before we decide on the second course.