HC Deb 04 August 1976 vol 916 cc815-6W
Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the maximum amount a parent can be fined for not ensuring that his child attends school; when this figure was fixed; what it would now be if it were raised in line with inflation; and if there are any proposals to increase it.

Miss Margaret Jackson

The maximum fine which may be imposed on a parent who fails to comply with a school attendance order or to secure a child's regular attendance at school is £10 for a first offence and £20 for a second or subsequent offence. These rates have applied since 1st January 1968, and if they were to be increased to take account of changes in the General Index of Retail Prices the June 1976 rates would be £24.60 and £49.20, respectively. There are no current legislative proposals to increase these fines.