HC Deb 26 April 1989 vol 151 cc551-2W
Mr. Wall

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what measures he is taking to obtain an accurate account of teacher shortages in secondary education.

Mrs. Rumbold

My Department collects information from local education authorities each year on the number of vacant posts by secondary subject. The results of the secondary staffing survey, conducted last year, will be available shortly.

Mr. Flannery

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received on restoration of the negotiating rights of teachers; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Rumbold

My right hon. Friend has received approximately 120 letters on this issue since 1 January 1989 both directly and through hon. Members.

Mr. Evennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what progress has been made in the recruitment of teachers of shortage subjects; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Butcher

The Department launched its action programme on teacher shortages in 1986. Recruitment to initial teacher training last year showed an increase in mathematics by 27 per cent., in science by 9 per cent. and in technology by 39 per cent. over the levels in 1986. The Government will develop their action programme as necessary to ensure a sufficient supply of qualified teachers in these subjects to meet the needs of schools.