HC Deb 01 December 1987 vol 123 c536W
81. Mr. Speed

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is his policy towards indiscipline in schools, in the light of the report on indiscipline in schools prepared by the Professional Association of Teachers and theDaily Express, a copy of which has been forwarded to him; and if he will have discussions with teachers' unions, education authorities and parents' organisations with a view to taking effective steps to tackle the problem.

Mrs. Rumbold

My right hon. Friend deplores any violent behaviour in schools, and urges schools to take positive action to tackle the problem. The Education (No. 2) Act 1986 will strengthen the authority of head teachers and governing bodies — which in future will include more parents—by giving them direct responsibility for maintaining discipline.