§ Mr. WyattTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills (1) how many pupils and students in Sittingbourne and Sheppey do not have places in schools; and if he will make a statement; [82111]
(2) how many schools in Sittingbourne and Sheppey have refused access to children on grounds of the health and safety legislation since the beginning of the school year. [82112]
§ Mr. Miliband[holding answer 21 November 2002]: The Department does not collect this information. LEAs have a statutory duty to ensure that sufficient school places are available for pupils of compulsory school age and it is for them to monitor local needs and plan provision accordingly. LEAs in general, or boards of governors in foundation schools, have a statutory duty under health and safety legislation to take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure the health and safety of pupils and staff.