HC Deb 30 March 1983 vol 40 c161W
37. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement regarding the future of Newbattle college, Midlothian.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

Her Majesty's inspectorate has recently carried out a review of the courses at Newbattle abbey college and will be reporting to me. My Department will also be carrying out this year a review of other aspects of the college and its activities as part of the periodical review of all non-Departmental public bodies recommended in the Pliatzky report (Cmnd. 7797). Both these reviews are being undertaken in the ordinary course of work and do not imply that any aspects of the college call for special study. In considering the findings full account will be taken of the special role of the college and of the value of its courses, and if the reviews indicate that any changes would be desirable these would be discussed fully with the board of governors before any action was taken.