HC Deb 24 March 1986 vol 94 c325W
Mr. Campbell-Savours

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is his latest estimate of the cost of introducing the general certificate of secondary education examinations.

Mr. Chris Patten

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Banbury (Mr. Baldry) on 21 March.

Dr. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if any transitional arrangements are being made to cater for students who are sick or who fail their O or A-level examinations and who wish to re-take them after the introduction of the general certificate of secondary education; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Chris Patten

The first GCSE examinations will be held in summer 1988. GCE O-level examinations will not be available from then on. I understand that the GCE examination boards will be making their normal provision for O-level examinations in winter 1987 which will enable pupils to repeat examinations taken in summer that year. GCE A-level examinations are not affected.