Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Greg Hands (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 15 March 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Post-primary Education

Question: I thank the Minister for her answer, but the Prime Minister has made it clear that he has no intention of scrapping academic selection in parts of the UK where parents want it. Why should Northern Ireland be any different?

Answer: The system to be introduced in Northern Ireland is one of informed parental choice, and the Prime Minister has made it clear that he is in favour of such choice. In Northern Ireland, we have a system in which 40 per cent. of children go to grammar school, yet the majority of the population do not achieve their potential. We will introduce a system that best meets the needs of children, young people and the economy in Northern Ireland. [Interruption.]

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 443 c1446
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Admissions Curriculum Northern Ireland Schools Secondary education Vocational education Transfer procedure tests
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk