asked the Minister of Education if her attention has been called to the ultimatum sent by the National Union of Teachers to the Durham County Council demanding that their closed shop policy should end by 30th May or resignations will be tendered; what action she is taking; and if she will make a statement.

Yes, I have received a complaint from the National Union of Teachers together with a copy of their letter addressed to the local education authority of Durham County. I have asked the authority to let me have their comments at the earliest possible moment.