§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what guidance he has given to Ministers of the Crown in respect of their involvement in campaigning for grammar school ballots. [118428]
§ Ms Estelle MorrisWe are keen to encourage all debates on the issues of grammar schools to be conducted fairly. That is why we drew up the Ballot Information Code, which applies specifically to relevant national or local organisations engaged in providing material for parents relating to a petition or a ballot. We commend its principles to all those involved in the debate. A breach of the principles of the Code may lead the Secretary to State to declare a ballot void if, in his opinion, it is likely to have had a significant effect on voting.