§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if, in view of of the importance of parental contact with children in special schools, she will issue a circular to local education authorities drawing their attention to this and advising them to pay the costs of weekly visits where necessary; and if she will make a statement.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonMy Department has long recognised the importance of contact between parents and their handicapped children who are boarded away from home and has issued guidance to local education authorities on the circumstances in which they may assist parents with the cost of making visits. I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of this document.