§ Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what action he is taking to increase parental choice of schools; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FallonThe Government have already taken measures in the Education Reform Act 1988 to remove the artificial restrictions placed by some local education authorities on the number of pupils admitted to particular 375W schools, thus increasing parents' chances of getting a place for their child at the school of their choice. The relevant provisions of the Act were brought into force for secondary schools in August this year. My right hon. and learned Friend is currently considering the timing of their introduction in the primary sector. The Government have also ensured that parents have more information about schools through prospectuses and annual reports. Parental choice is being further extended through the creation of grant-maintained schools and city technology colleges.