§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will issue a circular to local education authorities to the effect that they should refrain from employing as a teacher any person convicted of a drug-related offence; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RumboldMy right hon. Friend does not consider the issue of a circular on employment of teachers convicted of drug offences to be necessary. Local education authorities are aware of the need to protect children arid young people from teachers who would be a risk to them, and my right hon. Friend whenever necessary uses his powers under the Education (Teachers) Regulations 1982 to bar such persons from teaching.