HC Deb 19 February 1979 vol 963 c46W
Mr. Carmichael

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is yet able to announce his intentions as to the reports of the Munn and Dunning committees.

Mr. Millan

I have today issued widely a circular giving my general reactions to the two reports and indicating my intention to institute a carefully controlled programme of further work and development. I have also caused to be published today by HMSO the report of the exploratory studies into the feasibility and costs of the proposals of the Munn and Dunning committees. Copies of my proposals for action and the feasibility study report have been placed in the Library.

The next phase of development must be undertaken in full co-operation with local authorities, teachers associations and others who share a common interest in ensuring that the work will be soundly and securely based and conducted within an agreed framework. For that purpose I propose to set up a group representing the various interests to advise me. I am instructing my Department to undertake discussions with those concerned to that end.