HC Deb 11 December 1979 vol 975 cc602-3W
68. Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science which of the recommendations of the Warnock report have already been implemented; and which other recommendations the Government are proposing currently to implement.

Dr. Boyson

Many of the Warnock committee's recommendations draw upon existing good practice and are for consideration by local education authorities and others responsible for meeting the special educational needs of children and young people. Those recommendations which rely for their implementation on Government action are being studied by my right hon. and learned Friend and his colleagues to see what is desirable and practicable in present circumstances.

Mr. Cunliffe

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received in response to the Warnock report on special educational needs; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Boyson

The wide-ranging public consultation which followed the publication of the Warnock report gave ample scope for comment. Some 350 organisations and individuals responded and support for the committee's principal recommendations was virtually unanimous, criticism being mainly confined to matters of detail.

These responses apart, representations have been confined to a very few inquiries about the Government's intentions. My right hon. and learned Friend is currently considering those recommendations which depend for their implementation on governmental action. A statement will be made as soon as possible.