§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how he proposes to improve the progressive development of reading skills.
§ Sir Wyn RobertsThe teaching of English under the national curriculum places considerable emphasis on the development of reading skills. There is already evidence of improvement. Last year's national curriculum tests for seven—year—olds showed a higher proportion of pupils had achieved level 2 or above–77 per cent.—in reading compared with the previous year–74 per cent. Level 2 is the level expected of a typical seven—year—old. In July last year I approved specific grant expenditure of £348,000 for innovative projects which are designed to improve primary reading standards in five local education authorities. The projects are being closely monitored and there will be a full evaluation in order that the gains can be passed to other LEAs in Wales.