§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations she has received about proposals for reorganisation of secondary education in Cumbria; and what replies she has given.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonI understand that the hon. Member is interested in proposals for Whitehaven and Penrith. My right hon. Friend has received and is still360W considering a number of objections to section 13 proposals for Whitehaven, which were published on 21 December 1978.
As for Penrith, my right hon. Friend discussed with the right hon. Member for Penrith and The Border (Mr. Whitelaw) representations he had received from governors and teachers of the three secondary schools about the local education authority's proposals. I have also met representatives of the teachers. Meanwhile, the governors of Queen Elizabeth grammar school, Penrith, have been required to submit further proposals.
§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she is satisfied with the system of guided parental choice used for secondary selection in parts of Cumbria; and what difficulties have arisen from its use.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonMy right hon. Friend is not satisfied with any system which is not in accordance with the comprehensive principle. She required the Cumbria local education authority to submit proposals for the completion of reorganisation throughout the county, and has now approved proposals for Kendal, Keswick, Brampton and Cockermouth.