§ Mr. Robert Cookeasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans she has for the National Advisory Council on Art Education on the expiry of the present term of office of members at the end of the year.
§ Mrs. ThatcherLast December I extended the term of the council by a further year to preserve continuity following the publication of the report of its Joint Committee with the National Council for Diplomas in Art and Design. Since then, in circular 7/71, I have announced conclusions on that report which are now being taken further, entailing consultations as explained in the326W circular. Against this background I do not propose to reconstitute the National Advisory Council immediately but I propose to consider as future needs arise how best to draw on opinion and guidance in this important sector of further education. Meanwhile I wish to acknowledge my appreciation to the chairman, Sir William Coldstream, and members of the retiring council for the valuable work they have undertaken over the years.