HC Deb 20 December 1988 vol 144 cc200-1W
35. Mr. Andrew MacKay

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the implementation of the Education Reform Act 1988 as it affects charging for school activities.

Mr. John Butcher

The Education Reform Act clarifies earlier legislation in establishing that schools may not charge for any provision offered during school hours, with the exception of individual music tuition. Charges may be made for activities provided outside school hours, unless these are required for a prescribed examination syllabus, or to fulfil statutory duties in connection with the national curriculum or religious education. Restrictions on charging do not prevent local authorities or schools from seeking voluntary contributions in support of any activity. Guidance on this aspect of the Act will issue in January 1989.