§ John AustinTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the availability and accessibility of drinking water for pupils in schools; what plans she has to introduce regulations to ensure availability and accessibility of drinking water for pupils in schools; and what steps she proposes to take in respect of schools where drinking water is(a) not readily available to pupils and (b) only available in toilets. [2489]
§ Mr. TimmsIt is for local education authorities and schools to decide how the provision of drinking water should be made, along with their general duty to ensure the health and safety of pupils. However, schools have a statutory requirement to provide a wholesome supply of water for domestic purposes, including a supply of drinking water.
§ John AustinTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the impact of dehydration on pupils' concentration, learning behaviour and educational performance; and if she will make a statement. [2490]
§ Mr. TimmsThe Department for Education and Skills has not made any assessment of the effect dehydration would have on the educational achievements or behaviour of children in schools.