§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what is the Government's policy on those schools required to close by local education authorities as a result of having surplus places but which then seek to avoid closure by opting out; and if she will make a statement. [18688]
§ Mr. Robin SquireWe have made it clear that we will not normally approve proposals for self-governing status prompted by the threat of closure. Each proposal is decided on its individual merits taking account of that general policy.
§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what is the Government's policy on local education252W authorities reducing surplus places in schools; and if she will make a statement. [18687]
§ Mr. Robin SquireWe continue to encourage all LEAs to remove surplus places as far as possible. We expect them—and the Funding Agency for Schools where appropriate—to keep under review opportunities for rationalisation of surplus capacity.