HC Deb 18 March 1991 vol 188 cc43-4W
Mr. Sillars

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what responsibilities Government have to ensure that schools in the private sector meet standards of education at least equivalent to those in state schools.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

Independent schools are required by law to register with my right hon. Friend who must be satisfied that efficient and suitable instruction is being provided. For this purpose, independent schools are subject to inspection by Her Majesty's inspectors of schools before receiving final registration. Thereafter, they are subject to inspection on a continuing basis in the same way as schools managed by an education authority.