§ 12. Mr. Stanbrookasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what account he takes in a proposal for the closure of a village school considering the views of the parents of the children attending that school.
§ 19. Mrs. Faithasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the criteria he employs in deciding on applications to cease to maintain village schools.
§ Mr. WaldegraveIn considering proposals to cease to maintain village schools, my right hon. Friend takes careful account of the educational, financial and social issues involved, including any representations made by parents, teachers and governors. He considers each case requiring his approval on its merits and only approves proposals if he believes that they are in the best interests of the children concerned.
§ 18. Mr. Pawseyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will take special administrative measures within his Department in order to co-ordinate policy to aid village schools.
§ Mr. WaldegraveMy right hon. Friend is satisfied that current administrative practice within his Department enables a co-ordinated approach to be taken towards issues affecting village schools.
§ 20. Mr. Watsonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if, in the light of the continued fall in school rolls, he will make a statement on his policy towards village schools.
§ Mr. WaldegraveMy right hon. Friend recognises the important contribution village schools make to their communities and he will continue to take these fully into account, together with other relevant factors, including the educational and financial effects of falling rolls, when considering proposals involving such schools.