§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what evidence he has that local authorities are cutting down on the number of weekly nursery class sessions; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. BoysonMost nursery education is part-time The only major nursery education scheme providing for fewer than five half day sessions a week that I am aware of is that operated by Devon LEA. A teacher and nursery assistant conduct nursery classes in different parts of the county on different days of the week. Each child in the scheme receives fewer than five half day sessions a week, but more children are able to benefit.
§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what percentage of children aged under 5 years attended nursery classes at the latest convenient date; what were the figures for each of the last five years; and if he will break these down to show each local education authority's figures.
§ Dr. BoysonThe information requested will take time to compile and I shall publish the details in theOfficial Report as soon as they are available.