§ Mr. J. H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps she will take either to promote grammar schools, encourage and foster grant-aided schools, or assist independent day public schools, in those areas where local authorities only provide comprehensive schools.
§ Mrs. ThatcherI believe in a healthy independent sector in education but I cannot provide direct financial assistance to schools which are independent. I am consulting the Direct Grant Joint Committee about the best way for direct-grant schools to continue to make their contribution to our educational system.