HC Deb 10 June 1980 vol 986 cc116-7W
48. Mr. Moate

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is his policy with regard to allowing greater flexibility for school leaving dates.

Dr. Boyson

: My right hon. and learned Friend is considering, against the background of high unemployment, whether the school leaving arrangements need to be amended so as to introduce a degree of flexibility. He has to weigh the merits of permitting early leaving where a job, an apprenticeship or other training is available against the consequent disruption of final year courses in the secondary schools. Any change would require new legislation, for which there are no immediate plans.