§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many places exist in grammar schools in the North Down area at Bangor, Newtownards and Holywood; how this number compares with five, 10 and 15 years ago; what has been the increase in attendance at primary schools in the area since 1970; and if he will make a statement regarding the provision of more grammar school places for boys and girls.
§ Mr. ScottThere are at present 4,480 places in grammar schools; it is estimated that in 1979 there were 4,180; comparable figures for 1974 and 1969 are not held centrally.
The enrolment in January 1983 (the latest date for which figures are available) in primary schools was 12,875, an increase of 1.9 per cent. since 1974 (the earliest date for which comparable figures are available).
While the selection of pupils is a matter for the appropriate school authorities, I am satisfied that since the introduction of the present transfer procedure arrangements in the 1980–81 school year a sufficient overall number of places have been made available for those pupils whose parents expressed a preference for a grammar school in this area and who, by virtue of obtaining a grade "A" were entitled to a non-fee-paying place in a grammar school.