To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many schools in Northern Ireland of less than 50 pupils closed in (a) 1975, (b) 1980, (c) 1985 and (d) 1989; and if he will make a statement.

[holding answer 16 July 1990]: The information requested is as follows:-

	Number
1975	16
1980	10
1985	10
1989	2

Our policy remains to support the rationalisation of small schools since this is in the best educational interests of pupils. However, in considering proposals for rationalisation we take into account the likely effects on local communities, particularly in isolated areas.