HC Deb 31 January 1989 vol 146 cc159-60
12. Mr. Key

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he intends to introduce a new system for the negotiation of teachers' pay and conditions.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

The Government hope to introduce new permanent machinery in time for the 1990 settlement.

Mr. Key

My right hon. Friend will be aware that the vast majority in the teaching profession have reacted well to these radical reforms and are working the system. Will he give hope to teachers of good will who wish negotiating rights to be restored and say when he hopes to announce progress?

Mr. Baker

I have set out the Government's proposals for a teachers' negotiating group and I have met the unions and the TUC. I expect to meet them again after Easter to conduct further discussions. A wide range of views has so far been expressed and it may be difficult to reach agreement and unanimity on the matter.