To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what action he has taken to (a) increase the accountability of Ofsted school inspectors and (b) reduce unnecessary apprehension by teachers about inspections since 1 May 1997. [81651]

We have agreed a number of changes with HM Chief Inspector of Schools since 1 May 1997 to improve the quality, consistency and value for money of the school inspection system. Those changes are contributing to increased accountability of school inspectors and should enable teachers to approach inspections with greater confidence. The changes include a reduction in the notice given for inspections from two terms to 6-10 weeks and short inspections for the most effective schools. The changes were widely welcomed in consultation. I have asked the Chief Inspector, Chris Woodhead, to write to my hon. Friend with further details of the changes and to place a copy of his letter in the Library.