§ Shona McIsaacTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to assist small rural primary schools. [55146]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeWe fully recognise the important contribution made by rural schools and have made it clear that under both the existing arrangements for deciding statutory proposals and those coming into force in September 1999 there will be a presumption against the closure of rural schools. Our educational policies are designed to assist all schools in raising standards, including small rural primary schools. Smaller infant class sizes will mean that all children get the best start at school, and the new information and communications technology we are supporting will be of particular help to rural schools in opening up new possibilities for enriching children's learning and overcoming rural isolation. The National Literacy Strategy, which began in schools this term, and the National Numeracy Strategy, to be implemented from 1999, are designed to raise standards in all primary schools.