§ 27. Mr. DykesTo ask the Secretary of State for Education to what extent her Department wishes to encourage the development of additional ethnic and religious facilities in English primary and secondary schools in the future. [23838]
§ Mr. ForthMy right hon. Friend considers proposals from promoters of a variety of new voluntary and grant-maintained schools. She takes into account a number of factors, including the extent to which the proposals would enhance the choice, diversity and quality of education in the area; the overall need for additional school places locally and therefore the cost-effective use of public money; and evidence that the new school would be able to deliver the national curriculum.