HC Deb 15 May 1970 vol 801 c378W
Mr. Brooks

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science to what extent the work of immigrant education liaison officers employed by local education authorities and that of teachers and voluntary counsellors engaged in developing relations between different ethnic groups is evaluated and assessed by his Department; and what results have been published or are in preparation.

Miss Lestor:

The development of harmonious relations between different ethnic groups is a widespread responsibility. An indirect but valuable contribution can be made by immigrant education liaison officers, teachers, voluntary counsellors and others who bring immigrant families into closer contacts with the schools.

I am aware of developments in this and associated fields from reports of H.M. inspectors in areas of substantial immigration. My right hon. Friend has recently commissoned the National Foundation for Educational Research to carry out a project into educational arrangements for schools with immigrant pupils, the report of which is expected to include some assesment of liaison arrangements with immigrant families.