§ Mr. Richard Pageasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science by how much the age participation rate of under-fives has increased compared with the increase between 1974–75 and 1978–79.
§ Sir Keith JosephThe age participation rate of under-fives rose from 28 per cent. in 1974–75 to 37.3 per cent. in 1978–79 and 40.2 per cent. in 1981–82, the latest year for which figures are available. I regret that I incorrectly said in my speech — [Vol. 41, c.817] — that the participation rate in the earlier period rose by one per cent., marginally more than the increase under this Government.