§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what recent representations he has received on the consequences of the decision to raise the school leaving age; what action he is taking to monitor the effects in each area; and what policy he has to ensure that pupils receive the maximum benefit.
§ Mr. ArmstrongMy right hon. Friend has received a number of requests, to which he has not been able to accede, to exempt individual pupils in one way or another from the requirements of the existing legislation. It is primarily for local education authorities and teachers to observe the effects of raising the school leaving age and to enable pupils to receive maximum benefit from the extension of secondary schooling. My Department, the Schools Council and Her Majesty's inspectors have provided guidance on making good use of this opportunity and my right hon. Friend is watching developments.