§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many local authority education areas there are in England and Wales; and in which of these children still sit the 11-plus examination.
§ Dr. BoysonIn January 1980, 39 of the 97 local education authorities in England maintained at least one school to which admissions were made by reference to38W ability or aptitude. However, the Department does not keep records of the detailed methods by which such selection is carried out. Information about Welsh authorities is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales.
§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what recent consultations have taken place concerning the future of secondary schools and the continuation of the 11-plus examination in Calderdale; and what was the outcome.
§ Dr. BoysonThe Calderdale local education authority and the governors of the Crossley and Porter voluntary controlled school published on 8 December 1980 proposals under sections 12 and 13 of the Education Act 1980 for the reorganisation of the secondary schools in Halifax along comprehensive lines, with the establishment of a sixth form college. Many letters objecting to these proposals have been received, and my noble Friend the Minister of State has met deputations of local parents and councillors on three occasions since 5 May. The proposals require the approval of my right hon. and learned Friend; his decision will be announced as soon as possible.