Grammar Schools

Debate between Lord Framlingham and Lord Nash

Thursday 15th September 2016 Lords Chamber

[Lord Nash]

The existing evidence is based on the system as it currently works, which is old technology and has undoubtedly resulted in binary choices in cases. We want to develop some new technology that embraces the selective system to result in a benefit to the whole education system.

[Lord Framlingham (Con)]

My Lords, does the Minister agree with me that there is a grave danger of this House being as out of step with the country on grammar schools as it was on Brexit? The majority of people in the country understand the huge value of grammar schools—

[Lord Framlingham]

Noble Lords are making my point. The majority of people in the country are happy to see grammar schools reintroduced.

[Lord Nash]

We want to widen the choice for parents and there may well be areas where they would like to see more grammar schools.

Grammar Schools

Debate between Lord Framlingham and Lord Nash

Wednesday 7th September 2016 Lords Chamber

[Lord Nash]

I am fully aware that there is evidence to support the noble Lord’s case. There is also evidence to the contrary. We will look at this very carefully. Views are divided. It is obvious from today’s discussion that the issue is contentious. We are considering all our options and any decisions we make will be driven entirely by considerations of social mobility and that we have a schools system which works well for everyone.

[Lord Framlingham (Con)]

Does the Minister agree that anyone who is concerned about the great lack of social mobility in recent years will be delighted at any possibility of the return of grammar schools? Their destruction was the major cause of the reduction in social mobility.

[Lord Nash]

As I say, we will look at all the considerations on both sides very carefully.