asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has made to the examination authorities to ensure that Scottish pupils are not penalised in any way by the recent disputes affecting Scottish schools.

This is the responsibility of the schools and of the Scottish Certificate of Education Examination Board. The board is aware of my concern, which I know it shares, that pupils should not be penalised by recent events in the schools. It has stated publicly that this factor will be taken into account as may be appropriate.