HC Deb 10 February 1981 vol 998 c319W
29. Mr. Allen McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what estimate he has made of the number of primary schools likely to be closed as a result of cuts in Government finance to local government.

Mr. Mark Carlisle

The need to close schools arises from falling pupil numbers which lead to surplus places in both permament and temporary accommodation. To reduce the educational and financial disadvantages of surplus places in permanent accommodation, it would be desirable to close at least 1,000 primary schools by 1982–83.