§ Mr. Hannamasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he has studied the report of the National Association for the Welfare of Children in Hospital, "Education for Children in Hospital", a copy of which has been sent to him; if he will introduce measures to improve the situation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. BoysonI have studied the report, which is a summary of the findings of a research project. I look forward to seeing the full report in due course. Provision of education for children and young people in hospital is the responsibility of local education authorities under the Education Acts. I have no evidence that additional legislation is needed. The Department is preparing a design note to give practical guidance on the planning and design of accommodation for teaching children in hospitals. I hope that this, together with the report, will encourage local education authorities to reconsider their provision.