§ 21. Mr. Geraint HowellsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he is satisfied with the present state of education in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Wyn RobertsWelsh local education authorities provide a generally satisfactory education service, but there is always room for improvement.
The Government have published consultation documents setting out proposals for education reform. An Education Bill embodying those proposals is to be introduced shortly.
§ 24. Mr. Nicholas BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what was the outcome of the consultation in Wales on the proposed national curriculum and other related papers on education; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Wyn RobertsMy right hon. Friend and I have received almost 400 written representations on our proposals for the national curriculum in Wales, and I expect to publish soon a statement of policy for the curriculum in Wales. In addition, there have been a series of meetings between my officials and the various educational interests in Wales, on this and our other proposed developments in schools—financial delegation, grant maintained schools, open enrolment and collective worship. Our intentions will be made public as soon as the Education Bill is published.