§ 25. Mr. David HeathWhat discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Education and Employment on the future of musical instrument tuition.[27609]
§ Mr. Chris SmithI have had a number of discussions with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment on musical instrument tuition and a number of other matters of mutual and important interest.
§ Mr. HeathI thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply and I am glad that he is having such discussions. A number of extra-curricular activities connected with culture and sports in education are the province of his Department. Will he assure me that a joint action plan will be launched to ensure that musical instrument tuition is available to all pupils whatever their education authority?
§ Mr. SmithI can indeed offer the hon. Gentleman that assurance. The pattern of musical instrument tuition in our schools has been in decline for many years and it is patchy in terms of the quality of provision, as highlighted by the recent report of the Associated Board. I am now in intensive discussion with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment, the board, the Performing Rights Society and others about specific proposals, which I hope to be able to introduce within the next few weeks.