§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what procedures are followed by him in determining whether or not to approve a closure of a school proposed by a local education authority; if he will list any statutory provisions to which he has regard in this connection; and if he is satisfied with the adequacy of present procedures.
§ Dr. BoysonThe statutory procedures for making, considering and deciding school closure proposals are set out in section 12 of the Education Act 1980. When it falls434W to my right hon. Friend to decide statutory proposals to close a school he examines each case on its individual merits in the light of the educational interests of the public concerned, local circumstances including any objections, and the financial factors involved. My right hon. Friend is satisfied that present procedures allow decisions to be made with full regard to all the relevant factors.