§ 7. Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what consideration he gives to the matter of rural deprivation when making decisions about school closures.
§ Dr. BoysonI am well aware of the important role that the village school plays in the life of rural communities, and my right hon. Friend takes this carefully into account in exercising his responsibilities.
§ Mr. Tom Benyonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the average length of time since April 1981 for determination of his decision to confirm or refuse local education authorities permission to close particular schools.
§ Dr. BoysonThe average is 6.2 months. This includes the 2 months during which objections can be made and, in the case of proposals by local education authorities, the further month allowed before the authority must submit those objections and their comments to the Secretary of State.