§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland on what evidence the Scottish Tertiary Education Advisory Council bases its recommendations that three colleges of education be closed.
§ Mr. Allan StewartThe arguments underlying the council's recommendations on the colleges of education, and the factors taken into account, are set out in paragraphs 5.27 to 5.39 of the council's report (Cmnd. 9676).
§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what factors he will take account of in deciding on the Scottish Tertiary Education Advisory Council's recommendations on colleges of education; and how important economic consideration will be.
§ Mr. Allan StewartAs my right hon. Friend the Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger) indicated on 9 December 1985 at columns 460–461 in answer to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for Cunninghame North (Mr. Corrie) the Government have invited comments on the council's report and will wish to consider these before decisions are taken on the council's various recommendations. With regard to those recommendations relating to the colleges of education, my right hon. and learned Friend will have in mind the need to reach decisions, in the light of comments submitted, which are appropriate on educational grounds and at the same time cost-effective.