§ Mr. WinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what representations he has received over the new procedures for proposed closures of local authority schools; and if he will make a statement. [69255]
§ Ms Estelle MorrisWe have received no representations concerned specifically with changes in procedures for the closure of schools. Under the provisions of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, consultation in the local area and the publication of statutory proposals will continue to be necessary before a school may be closed, and anyone may object to such proposals. We are currently consulting on the detailed regulations concerning statutory proposals for changes to schools, and in formulating the final arrangements we shall be considering any points made by those responding to consultation.