HC Deb 13 December 1976 vol 922 cc594-5W
Sir W. Elliott

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will include in guidelines to local education authorities the need to consult parental opinion when reorganisation of feeder primary schools to comprehensive schools is being undertaken.

Miss Margaret Jackson

When a secondary school is likely to have more applications for admission than can be accepted the local education authority may properly decide to give priority to children who have attended particular primary schools which they then designate as "feeder" schools. I hope that when making or changing such arrangements authorities will ensure that local parents are kept fully informed and that their views are considered. My right hon. Friend intends to issue guidance on this and related matters in the coming year.