HC Deb 11 January 1999 vol 323 cc100-1W
Sir Teddy Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what percentage of children in(a) England and (b) Northern Ireland attend grammar schools. [64526]

Ms Estelle Morris

In January 1998, 4.5 per cent. of all pupils aged 11 and over in maintained schools in England attended grammar schools.

Information for Northern Ireland is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

Mr. Norman

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what estimate he has made of the cost implications of the restructuring of Kent's schooling system which would be required if grammar schools were to be abolished; and if he will place the breakdown of that estimate in the Library. [64497]

Ms Estelle Morris

None. It is for parents in Kent to decide whether or not they wish to retain selection by reference to high academic ability. If they voted to do so, the law would require only the admission authorities of those schools to change their admission arrangements. Any other changes would be a matter for decision at local level.