§ Mr. MillerTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment when he will publish findings from the first stage of the Quinquennial Review of the Special Educational Needs Tribunal. [133785]
§ Jacqui SmithThe Prior Options stage of the Quinquennial Review of the Special Educational Needs Tribunal is now complete. The review team found clear support for a formal system of resolving disputes between local education authorities and parents in relation to the special educational needs of children. The SEN Tribunal is seen as the most appropriate body to deliver that function.
The Prior Options Review has, however, raised a number of issues in relation to the Tribunal and these will be considered in Stage 2 of the review. Stage 2 will begin shortly. Issues to be considered will include performance, quality of service and financial controls and systems.
A full report of the Prior Options stage will be published within the next two weeks. Copies will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses and will be sent to key stakeholders and contributors to the consultation exercise. It will also be available on the DfEE website.