To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made of the importance of design, engineering, manufacturing and technology in the curriculum. [67783]

Engineering and manufacturing are not subjects of the National Curriculum, but related issues are commonly covered by National Curriculum design and technology (D&T) and information technology (IT). D&T and IT have occupied a justifiably important position in the National Curriculum since its inception in 1990. We are reviewing the National Curriculum for the year 2000 and are considering a range of issues. In reaching decisions on the future shape of the National Curriculum, we will listen to the views of a wide range of people. There will be a public consultation on the revised National Curriculum in the summer.