School-Leaving Age

HC Deb 01 December 1971 vol 827 cc106-7W

Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the plans he proposes making in order to enable the raising of the school-leaving age to be effected smoothly.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

I have already sent the hon. Member a copy of my Department's Circular No. 813 of 8th November on this subject. I believe that the preparations already made will enable education authorities to overcome problems without too much difficulty.

Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the number of new schools, and their expected location, required to accommodate the increased number of pupils created by raising the school leaving age to 16 years.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

Much of the accommodation required is already available. Some of that which remains to be provided will be in new schools, but more will be in extensions to existing schools.