HL Deb 06 February 2002 vol 631 c99WA
Lord Lucas

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the report in the Times Educational Supplement of 18 January that a teacher is being accused in front of the General Teaching Council of “criticising his headteacher and colleagues to an inspector” and “writing to an examination board to complain about the running of a GCSE maths exam” is true; and, if so, why such action could be construed as misconduct. [HL2534]

Baroness Ashton of Upholland

Since June 2001, the General Teaching Council has had powers to investigate, consider and determine cases where it is alleged that a teacher registered with the council has been guilty of unacceptable professional conduct. The first such case is at present before the council and has been adjourned until March. It involves a number of allegations, including those referred to by the noble Lord. It is for the council to determine cases on the evidence and it would not be right for the Government to comment.