§ 20. Mr. Strangasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many teachers have taken strike action in support of the teaching unions' current campaign for an independent pay review; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. YoungerPrecise figures are not available because of the selective nature of the teachers' action. It is clear, however, that the large majority of members of the unions involved have taken strike action at one time or another.
§ 21. Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many representations he has received from Ayrshire parents and teachers about an independent review of the teachers' pay.
§ Mr. YoungerAs at 8 February, approximately 300. In addition, on 1 February I met a deputation of parents from each school in my constituency.
§ 24. Mr. McKelveyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has met parents and teachers concerning selected school closures in Ayrshire as a consequence of the teachers' dispute.
§ Mr. YoungerI met a group of parents in Ayr on 1 February and a deputation of teachers in the House of Commons on 6 February. I made it clear that I strongly deplore strike action by teachers wherever it takes place and that the present selective tactics of the Educational Institute of Scotland are particularly unfair to the pupils concerned.