§ 34. Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on his Department's policy in respect of the current network of rural schools. [8632]
§ Mr. ByersOur policies are designed to raise standards in all schools, wherever they are situated, and we are currently consulting about the best means to do this. All proposals for changes to rural schools that come to the Department for decision will be considered on their individual merits, taking into account all the consequences of the proposals. We recognised the important role played by rural schools and will want to adopt policies which reflect this.