§ 65. Mr. Concannonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to bring the school-leaving dates in Scotland into line with those in England.
§ Mr. RossIn both countries the end of the summer term is one of the leaving dates, by statute in England and Wales and by local prescription, approved by me, in Scotland. The main practical difference is that the second leaving date in England and Wales is fixed by statute whereas in Scotland it is effectively chosen by the education authority with, again, my approval. I have received no representations against this element of choice. An education authority may fix a third date with my approval, but I intend to consult those education authorities which have done so as to whether three dates are still desirable.