§ Mr. ConnartyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if the Government intend to approve the closure of Zetland primary school in Grangemouth in central region. [26872]
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§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonMy right hon. Friend's consent to the closure of a non-denominational primary school is required only in the circumstances prescribed in schedule 2 to the Education (Public and Consultation etc.) (Scotland) Regulations 1981, namely, where the number of pupils at the school is greater than 80 per cent. of its pupil capacity, or where pupils would have to attend a different school five or more miles from the school proposed for closure. My right hon. Friend understands that neither of these criteria applies in the case of Zetland primary school, Grangemouth and any decision to close it would, therefore, be entirely a matter for the education authority.
§ Mr. ConnartyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what procedure applies to the Central regional council to close Zetland primary school in Grangemouth. [26850]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonAny education authority which makes a proposal to close a school is required to consult in accordance with the detailed provisions of the Education (Publication and Consultation etc.) (Scotland) Regulations 1981, and to have regard to any representations made to it by persons it is required to consult.