HC Deb 17 December 1985 vol 89 cc119-20W
46. Mr. Jack Thompson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if the programme for the introduction of the new general certificate of secondary education is on schedule; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Chris Patten

Preparations for the introduction of the GCSE are proceeding according to the timetable set by my right hon. Friend in June 1984. The Secondary Examinations Council and the GCSE examining groups are well on course in their plans for the start of the national programme of in-service training in January next year.