HC Deb 25 April 1972 vol 835 cc271-2W
Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will seek powers to discourage or prevent local authorities from increasing the pupil/teacher ratio in any part of their education systems or reducing the proportion of pupils of primary age being admitted to schools prior to their fifth birthday.

Mr. van Straubenzee

No. It is for the local education authority to reach decisions on these matters having regard to the resources available to them and any central guidance which may be given.