HC Deb 29 January 1986 vol 90 cc545-6W
19. Mr. Strang

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of the teaching unions in Scotland to discuss their campaign for an independent pay review; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Allan Stewart

At his invitation my right hon. Friend the Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger) and I met representatives of the teachers' unions on 27 September 1985.

21. Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what further representations he has received on the teachers' dispute.

Mr. Allan Stewart

My right hon. and learned Friend and I continue to receive many representations about the teachers' dispute.

22. Mr. Steel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what fresh initiatives he intends to take in the teachers' dispute.

38. Mr. Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he plans to introduce any new initiative to settle the teachers' dispute.

Mr. Rifkind

I am carefully considering all options, but I believe the immediate need is for the teachers and their employers to get into negotiation on a realistic basis.

26. Mr. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has any new proposals to protect Scottish schoolchildren from the consequences of the current industrial action by members of the Educational Institute of Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Allan Stewart

The interests of schoolchildren can best be served by a speedy settlement of the dispute. The management of the education service is the responsibility of the education authorities and it is their paramount duty to do all they can to maintain efficient schooling pending such a settlement.

34. Mr. Douglas

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on his policy relating to a solution of the current dispute in Scottish education.

Mr. Allan Stewart

I refer to the answer given earlier today by my right hon. and learned Friend to the hon. Member for Linlithgow (Mr. Dalyell).