§ 19. Mr. Sackvilleasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied that the scope of syllabuses are being sufficiently protected by education authorities in responding to falling school rolls.
§ Mr. Chris PattenMy right hon. Friend is well aware that falling pupil numbers may make it difficult for schools to offer a broad curriculum, matched to the abilities of their pupils, without incurring disproportionate costs. This is why he urges local authorities and the governors of voluntary schools, on educational as much as on financial grounds, to rationalise provision so as to maintain schools of sufficient size. The Government published their proposals on school size in "Better Schools" for consultation with the partners, and my right hon. Friend intends to issue further guidance shortly.