§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what shortcomings in the performance of the South Eastern education and library board were revealed by his review of educational administration. [29503]
§ Mr. AncramThe proposals for change were based not on the shortcomings of particular education and library boards but on an assessment of the most appropriate administrative structure for education across Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many representations he has received about the abolition of the present identity of the South Eastern education and library board; and how many were in favour. [29500]
§ Mr. AncramSo far, I have received some 1,300 written responses to the "Proposals for Change" document. These relate to the full range of proposals in the document rather than simply to the proposed merger of Boards. Further written responses are still being received and I am continuing to meet deputations from interested groups.
The responses are being analysed at present and I will write to the hon. Member when the analysis is complete.