HC Deb 20 March 1989 vol 149 cc405-6W
Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether there is any religious group from which he would automatically reject a proposal to sponsor a city technology college; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Butcher

All proposals put to us for the establishment of city technology colleges are considered strictly on their merits. My right hon. Friend would not, however, find any proposal acceptable which sought to provide exclusively for applicants from particular religious groups.

Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will set out the criteria to be used in evaluating a proposal from a sponsor to support a city technology college based on the principles of any religion.

Mr. Butcher

In considering any proposal from prospective sponsors my right hon. Friend will first look at whether it meets the objectives and requirements of the CTC programme. A number of such sponsors have indicated that they would wish to place an emphasis on Christian values in their CTCs. This is entirely complementary to the fundamental CTC objective of preparing young people more effectively for their adult responsibilities and opportunities. But no CTC will admit pupils on the basis of their religious beliefs; and we shall ensure that all CTCs are fully representative in all respects of the communities they serve.

Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he has received any proposals or representations from companies or trusts to establish city technology colleges based upon religious principles other than Christianity; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Butcher

No such proposals or representations have been received.