§ Mr. Hanleyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how his curricular objectives of breadth and balance may be encouraged through the new single system of 16-plus examinations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Keith JosephMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales and I are issuing today a consultation paper setting out our proposals for distinction and merit certificates within the general certificate of secondary education examination. Our objective is to encourage the abler pupils, in particular, to pursue broad and balanced examination courses in the fourth and fifth years of secondary education. Copies of the consultative paper have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses. Comments are invited by the end of April 1985.