§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about the Astin report on the governing bodies of schools in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. John PattenThe Government have accepted in principle most of the Astin report's recommendations, including one that parents and assistant teachers should be represented on the boards of governors of every grant-aided school in Northern Ireland. Proposals for the overall composition of the new boards of governors are still being discussed with the major interests involved in school management, a proposal for a draft order will be published as soon as possible after the consultations are complete. My noble Friend, the Lord Elton, gave a fuller account of the Government's position in announcements made on 18 March and 7 April, copies of which have been placed in the Library.