§ Sir Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his policy towards small primary schools in rural areas; and whether his Department gives regional authorities guidelines on appropriate criteria for closures.
§ Mr. Allan StewartThe special circumstances of primary schools in remote areas are recognised in the requirement that authorities must seek the consent of my right hon. and learned Friend to any proposals for closure where the intended receiving school is five or more miles distant from that to be closed. No guidelines have been issued by the Scottish Education Department on criteria for school closures; each case must be considered on its merits and in the light of its special circumstances. But at a time of declining pupil numbers and limited resources it is essential that education authorities keep under review the pattern of school provision in their areas.
§ Sir Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what guidance he gives to regional authorities on the position of one-teacher primary schools in rural areas.
§ Mr. Allan StewartNo guidance is given by my right hon. and learned Friend which specifically relates to one-teacher schools.