§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what recent representations she has received on the consequences of her decision to raise the 29W school-leaving age; what action she is taking to monitor the effects in each area; and what policy she has to ensure that pupils receive the maximum benefit.
§ Mr. RaisonMy right hon. Friend has received a number of requests, to which she has not been able to accede, to exempt individual pupils in one way or another from the requirements of the existing legislation. It is primarily for local education authorities and teachers to observe the effects of raising the school leaving age and to enable pupils to receive maximum benefit from the extension of secondary schooling. My Department, the Schools Council and Her Majesty's Inspectors have provided guidance on making good use of this opportunity and my right hon. Friend is watching developments.