HC Deb 14 November 1978 vol 958 c154W
45. Mr. Peter Bottomley

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will make a statement on the refusal of the Inner London Education Authority to allow children to take places made available by the school of their choice.

Mrs. Shirley Williams

The Inner London Education Authority makes great efforts to meet parents' wishes, and more than 97 per cent. of ILEA children are offered a place in their parents' first or second choice school. Some schools inevitably have more applicants than places. Those who are disappointed are offered places for their children at suitable alternative schools. On the case of one division, raised by the hon. Gentleman's letter of 17th October, I am writing to him today.