§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will consider establishing machinery to monitor examining in GCSE English language and literature by public examining bodies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RumboldThe School Examinations and Assessment Council is responsible under section 14(4)(a) of the Education Reform Act 1988 for keeping all aspects of examinations and assessment under review. In addition to this my right hon. Friend has responsibility under section 4(2)(c) of the Education Reform Act 1988 for determining arrangements in connection with the assessment of the national curriculum. We have every confidence that the arrangements being made by the GCSE examining groups for the examination of English following the introduction of the national curriculum will build on and improve those at present in force.
§ Mr. EvennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received concerning the sitting dates for GCSE examinations.
§ Mrs. RumboldMy right hon. Friend has received nearly 50 representations from head teachers and others about the GCSE timetable. The joint council for the GCSE is preparing to consult a sample of centres offering the GCSE about this matter. My right hon. Friend will expect to discuss with it the outcomes of the consultation.