HC Deb 16 February 1988 vol 127 cc812-3
7. Ms. Armstrong

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he has any plans to meet representatives of the First Division Association branch of his Department.

Mrs. Rumbold

No, Sir.

Ms. Armstrong

I am pleased that that answer suggests that the Government have got over their slight problem with First Division Association on the stand at the Ideal Home exhibition. Is the Minister aware that parents in my constituency will not benefit from any of that wonderful information — I understand that it will cost at least £30,000—because they will not be able to afford to go to the Ideal Home exhibition? They would much rather see that sort of expense put into the schools to ensure that their children have books. If the Minister is interested, I could give her many more effective and cheaper ways to communicate with parents.

Mrs. Rumbold

We hope that parents who have access to the Ideal Home exhibition will benefit from the information that will be disseminated there. I should make it perfectly clear that that information about the rights of parent governors is to do with the Education (No. 2) Act 1986. Parents in the hon. Lady's constituency will also receive information and leaflets, which will be distributed to all parents at all the schools.

Mr. Spearing

Is the Minister aware that concern has been expressed among the members of the FDA about the so-called efficiency payments that are now paid in the Department to high education officials? Can she tell the House who decides to whom those payments will be made, and how does she distinguish them from straight political patronage?

Mrs. Rumbold

There is no question of political patronage. These matters are properly decided within the association and its general negotiating circumstances. It does not come anywhere near Ministers.