§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what representations he has received over the funding arrangements for primary schools, in connection with developments in the curriculum and teaching methods; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. ForthMy right hon. Friend has received a number of representations commenting on the report, "Curriculum Organisation and Classroom Practice in Primary Schools", and in particular on the issue raised in the report of the current disparity between levels of funding for pupils at the upper end of primary education and pupils at the lower end of secondary education.
This is a matter for local education authorities, which may themselves suggest amendments to the age-weighted allowances in their formulae for the distribution of resources under local management of schools. I am glad to say that some authorities are examining this question, and I would encourage more to do so.