§ Mr. Barry Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Wales what were the absenteeism rates in Welsh secondary and Welsh primary schools in 1979, 1980 and 1981–82; what action he is taking to reduce absenteeism; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael RobertsThe available information is as follows:
Percentage of Pupils Absent of Census Day* Academic Year Primary Schools Secondary Schools 1979–80 8 11 1980–81 8 11 1981–82(Provisional) 8 11 * At September each year; Action to reduce absenteeism is, primarily, a matter for individual local education authorities and schools.