§ Mr. ArcherTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what concern has been expressed by local authorities about the number of education welfare officers; and if he has any plans to seek to increase their number, to alter their role or to seek to improve their performance.
§ Mr. DunnEducation welfare officers are employed by local education authorities, and it is for them to determine 127W the number needed in their area in the light of local circumstances. Our recommendations on the role and working methods of education welfare officers were set out in DES circular 2/86 "School Attendance and Education Welfare Services". We are considering issuing a further circular on good practice later this year.