HC Deb 14 February 1978 vol 944 c192W
45. Mr. Hordern

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she will amend the relevant regulations to allow education authorities to provide schools in new towns on a neighbourhood pattern.

Miss Margaret Jackson

There are no regulations which prevent the establishment of neighbourhood schools. Local education authorities are required under section 13 of the Education Act 1944, as amended, to submit proposals to the Secretary of State for approval. In reaching a decision on proposals my right hon. Friend takes account of all relevant factors, including, in the case of new towns, their neighbourhood pattern of development, before she reaches a decision on the proposals.