§ Mr. Georgeasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) what is his policy on the inclusion in the school curriculum of training in swimming, cycling and life-saving; and whether these are likely to be affected by cutbacks in educational expenditure;
(2) whether lessons in road and home safety and accident prevention are being restricted as a result of cuts in educational expenditure.
§ Dr. BoysonMy right hon. and learned Friend regards adequate provision of appropriate physical education and safety education as important, but the curriculum in individual schools is a matter for local decision. It should be possible for the bulk of the necessary savings in educational expenditure to be made in areas not directly concerned with teaching.
§ Mr. Georgeasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the overall effect that cuts in public expenditure will have on safety in schools.
§ Mr. Mark CarlisleReductions in planned expenditure by local education authorities will not affect their statutory responsibility to ensure safe working conditions for pupils and staff in schools.