HC Deb 17 February 1978 vol 944 c384W
Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to what he attributes the difference in academic achievements between school leavers in Northern Ireland and England and Wales; and what he anticipates will be the impact on the higher Northern Ireland figures of the spread of comprehensive education in the Province.

Mr. Carter

It is not possible to attribute the differences in academic achievements between school leavers in Northern Ireland and those in England and Wales to any particular causes. The spread of non-selective secondary education in Northern Ireland will provide a wider range of children with opportunities for academic achievement.