§ Mr. MacArthurasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what guidance his Department has given to local authorities regarding the minimum number of pupils acceptable for further education classes.
§ Mr. RossBecause of the widely varying circumstances no general guidance on minimum numbers has been issued. When a particular formal further education course is being established there are usually informal consultations so that adequate provision can be made without uneconomic use of resources, and H.M. Inspectorate are available to advise.
For informal further education courses my approval is not required, and the discretion as to minimum numbers rests with the education authority.