§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what are the recommended staffing levels in nursery schools; and what are the staffing levels of each regional and island authority expressed as a percentage of the recommended levels.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherOn the recommended staffing levels in nursery schools, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave him on 24 May. [Vol. 967, c. 260.] At September 1978, the latest date for which information is available centrally, the staffing requirements and actual numbers in education authority nursery schools were as follows:
Scottish Health Education Unit, was made with his authority; whether the content of the film is consistent with the aims of the unit; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FairgrieveThe film is one of a series called "Teenage Talk-in" which is available on loan as teaching material for pupils in the 14–16 age range. The series explores a number of personal and social issues which are important to young people. It was prompted by analyses of research into the factors which influence adolescents to start smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol.
I recognise that the straightforward presentation of information about health risks may not by itself alter the behaviour of some people. I therefore 729W support a complementary approach designed to encourage young people to think for themselves about the social pressures which can lead them to adopt unhealthy habits.
In accordance with my general policy of not exercising detailed control over the executive bodies in the health field, the unit does not need my specific authority for every film. I have not seen this film; but from the information I have about it I believe its aims to be generally consistent with the aims of the unit.