asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will estimate the average cost per child of primary education and the pupil/ teacher ratio in two teacher primary schools in rural areas and all primary schools, respectively, in 1970.

The average cost per pupil in primary schools in England and Wales in 1970–71 is estimated by the Institute of Municipal Treasurers and Accountants at £102·25. In January, 1971, there were 26·9 pupils per qualified teacher in such schools.Separate figures for two-teacher primary schools could not be obtained without disproportionate effort and cost.