HC Deb 04 April 2000 vol 347 c387W
Mr. Boswell

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement about the current responsibilities of his Department towards supporting the language and educational development of children under two years of age with a recognised hearing loss. [117364]

Jacqui Smith

It is for local education authorities to make educational provision for children of statutory school age, and those over the age of two with a statement of special educational needs, including those with a hearing-impairment. Where appropriate, local education authorities may also make special educational provision for children under two years of age.