§ 19. Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the Government's progress towards implementing their policy of national standards of literacy and numeracy in schools.
§ Dr. BoysonThe Government's aim is to promote the highest possible standards of achievement in schools. This is reflected in our proposals for a framework for the curriculum, the monitoring programme of the Assessment of Performance Unit, the work of Her Majesty's Inspectorate, and other policies of the Department.
§ 31. Mr. Michael Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will recommend to the Schools Council the introduction of a basic numeracy course in all Certificate of School Education examinations.
§ Dr. BoysonMy right hon. and learned Friend attaches great importance to the acquisition of basic skills, including numeracy. In the light of consultation with the examination boards and other interests he is reviewing the present system of GCE O level and CSE examinations for pupils of 16 plus. He is also studying the proposals in the Keohane report for a new examination at 17 plus to include compulsory tests of proficiency in English and mathematics.