§ 27. Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what action the Government are taking to ensure that Higher Still proceeds on time. [61291]
§ Mrs. LiddellWe are on course to introduce the first Higher Still courses in 1999. Over £24 million is being provided over the three year period up to 2001–02 to help classroom teachers implement Higher Still. This is in addition to the £20 million which will have been directly invested in Higher Still by the time the first classes start in 1999. An unprecedented level of support materials and national training is also being provided, and two additional in-service days have been granted for local training.
In addition, I have set up a Liaison Group consisting of representatives from teaching unions, local authorities, further education and parents' organisations, to discuss detailed arrangements for the phasing of Higher Still in 1999–2000. The Group will also consider other topics of concern identified by members.
§ Mr. WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of the Education Institute of Scotland to discuss the implementation of Higher Still. [61288]
§ Mrs. LiddellI had a positive and constructive meeting with representatives of the EIS on 24 November. This resulted in the EIS suspending its boycott of preparations for Higher Still and joining the Liaison Group which I have set up to agree the detailed arrangements for the rephasing of Higher Still in 1999–2000.