§ Dr. Goodson-WickesTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many representations he has received on the subject of specific learning difficulties in reading, writing, and spelling, dyslexia, since 23 January; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alan HowarthThe Department has received a number of such representations since the British Dyslexia Association began its dyslexia awareness campaign on 23 January. I shall be meeting representatives of the BDA shortly to discuss this important area of special educational needs.
Under the Education Act 1981, it is the responsibility of LEAs to make appropriate provision for all pupils with special educational needs in their area. It is therefore for LEAs and schools to ensure that suitable provision is 284W made for children with specific learning difficulties, including the teaching of reading and writing by methods appropriate to their needs.