HC Deb 20 July 1982 vol 28 cc130-1W
49. Mr. John Hunt

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will issue a circular to local education authorities reminding them of their obligations under the Education Act 1944 to provide full-time education for handicapped young people up to the age of 19 years.

Mr. William Shelton

The Department has stated many times that in its view local education authorities have a duty to secure provision, either in school or in an establishment of further education, for any young person under the age of 19 who wishes to continue full-time education. I am grateful to my hon. Friend for a further opportunity to draw attention to this duty, but I do not think that the dissemination of this view of it now requires a circular from the Department.