HC Deb 16 February 1988 vol 127 c582W
62. Mr. Battle

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans the Government have to increase the staying on rate at the age of 16 years; and if he will make a statement.

71. Mr. Harry Barnes

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans the Government have to increase the staying on rates at the age of 16 years; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Rumbold

As stated in the 1988 public expenditure White Paper the Government wish to encourage greater participation in post 16 education and training. My right hon. Friend aims to raise the level of attainment of young people and to encourage a more positive attitude to continuing education and training. He considers that the examination reforms and new forms of provisions already introduced, together with the curriculum and other school reforms proposed in the Education Reform Bill will help to achieve this objective.