Education: Reform of GCSEs

Lord Sanderson of Bowden Excerpts

Tuesday 11th June 2013 Lords Chamber

[Lord Nash]

My noble friend makes a very good point. We have consulted with organisations representing SEN groups. The points he makes, particularly in relation to voice and text, are technical and something that we should discuss in detail on a separate occasion. It is very important that we make sure that we have consulted all the right people on this difficult matter.

[Lord Sanderson of Bowden]

Will my noble friend tell me whether in his consultation he will consult the devolved authorities in Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland, and whether there is the slightest chance that they will go along with our plans?

[Lord Nash]

We intend to consult and we would like to reach a consensus. However, it will take all parties to achieve it.