§ Mr. Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what further measures he proposes to take to ensure that the direct grant grammar schools comply with the Government's policy for the reorganisation of secondary education on comprehensive lines.
§ Mr. Gordon WalkerI have decided in consultation with my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Scotland to ask the Public Schools Commission to review this issue and the related problem of the grant-aided schools in Scotland. I propose therefore to add the following to the Commission's present terms of reference
To advise on the most effective method or methods by which the direct grant grammar schools in England and Wales and the grant-aided schools in Scotland can participate in the movement towards comprehensive reorganisation, and to review the principle of central government grant to these schools.This will not delay the preparation of the Commission's First Report on independent boarding schools.
I understand that after completing this Report, which I expect to receive in the first half of next year, the Commission propose to direct its attention to the day independent schools and the new terms of reference will then take effect. Nearer the time I propose, in consultation with my right hon. Friend, to appoint some additional members to the Commission. 388W Pending the Commission's Second Report and any action which the Government may decide to take in the light of its recommendations, my right hon. Friend and I would hope that arrangements already operating between the schools and local education authorities under Circular 10/65 for England and Wales and Circular 600 for Scotland, and any discussions which may be in progress, should continue.