§ Mr. Macleanasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will take into account the views on the maintenance of village schools expressed in paragraph 25 of the Countryside Commission's report, "A Better Future For The Uplands," when formulating his policy towards such schools; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DunnMy right hon. Friend recognises the important social, as well as educational, role which many village schools continue to play in their communities. Nevertheless, he considers proposals to close village schools, as with all school closure proposals that come before him, on their individual merits taking into account all the relevant educational, social and financial factors. His main concern must be to ensure, so far as all the circumstances allow, that the quality of education offered to children in every school is the best that can be provided.