HC Deb 31 January 1952 vol 495 cc57-8W
93. Mr. M. Lindsay

asked the Minister of Education whether she will now make a statement on the age limit for the general certificate of education.

86. Mr. R. Robinson

asked the Minister of Education whether she will now amend the regulations so as to enable children to sit for the general certificate of education before reaching the age of 16 years; and whether she will introduce a distinction mark for this examination.

Miss Horsbrugh

The Secondary School Examinations Council have themselves undertaken a review of the new examination system as a whole in the light of such experience as has now been gained. The Council have recommended to me that no change should be made in the published arrangements for the 1952 examination, and I have decided to accept this recommendation. I shall now await their considered conclusions in the matter.

Mr. Baker

asked the Minister of Education if she will now abolish the rule by which examinations are taken at certain age levels and leave it entirely to the abilities of the entrants.

Miss Horsbrugh

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given today to my hon. Friends the Members for Solihull (Mr. M. Lindsay) and Blackpool, South (Mr. R. Robinson).