§ Mr. StrawTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the procedure for the appointment of each of Her Majesty's inspectors of schools; what is the role of the Privy Council in such appointments; and by what procedure inspectors may be made redundant or otherwise have their employment terminated.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeHer Majesty's inspectors are recruited by open competition after advertisements in the national and education press. The holder of my office recommends the names of prospective HMI through the Privy Council to Her Majesty the Queen. Any terminations of employment would be made in accordance with central guidance currently operating within the civil service.