§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement concerning the educational objectives of his announced programme of intelligence testing; and what evidence he has in his possession that suggests that such tests are a reliable guide to(a) future performance in any skill, (b) general ability in any branch of knowledge or (c) effective discharge of occupational responsibility.
§ Mrs. RumboldThe national assessment arrangements are not a programme of intelligence testing. They will assess by reference to clear attainment targets what pupils134W know, understand and can do in a range of subjects. There is widespread evidence that the setting of clear objectives accompanied by rigorous assessment and reporting can make a significant contribution to improving pupils' motivation and performance.