§ 44. Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether his Department will now issue advice to education authorities on retaining schools in remote rural areas.
§ Mr. DunnMy right hon. Friend see no need to add to the advice already available. The Government's recognition of the value of rural schools to their communities is reflected in the calculations underlying rate support grant which make allowance for the additional costs of provision in sparsely populated areas; in the circulars to local education authorities about falling rolls; and in my right hon. Friend's careful consideration of all closure proposals that fall to him to decide, which in each case takes account of local circumstances, the view, of the local community, and the educational needs of the children concerned. Schools in Scotland are the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.