Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied that the operation of Section 29(l) of the 1962 Education (Scotland) Act, is such that reasonable provision is made for parental wishes in the allocation of children to particular schools; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RossYes. Allocation to primary schools managed by education authority is generally in accordance with a zoning scheme drawn up by the authority defining the areas to be served by particular schools. Allocation of pupils to secondary schools managed by an education authority is governed by the authority's educational provision and transfer schemes, as approved by me,72W and the procedure for settling any disputes which may arise between parents and education authorities takes full account of parents' wishes. Disputes are relatively rare, and, as comprehensive reorganisation progresses and transfer tests are abolished, the occasions for such disputes should gradually disappear.