§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what estimate of the school population in the London borough of Brent has been made by her Department for the years 1973–74, 1974–75 and 1975–76; what factors have been taken into consideration which would lead to any decrease; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. RaisonThe estimated pupil population in maintained primary and secondary schools in Brent is projected to rise from 44,100 in January 1973 to 45,900 in 1974, 46,900 in 1975 and 47,600 in 1976.
Increases are expected in pupil numbers in all age groups except primary 5-plus where a marginal fall is expected, reflecting the annual decline in births in England and Wales in recent years. In general, the trends in pupil numbers projected for Brent are similar to those projected for England and Wales as a whole.