(2) what informal consultation with stakeholders took place prior to the publication of the consultation document on the Definition of Full-Time Education in Independent Schools; and if he will make a statement;
(3) why a draft Regulatory Impact Assessment was not attached to the consultation paper on the Definition of Full-Time Education in Independent Schools; and if he will make a statement.
The consultation on the Definition of Full-Time Education in Independent Schools has been undertaken in full adherence with the Cabinet Office’s Code of Practice on Consultations. All major stakeholders, identified prior to the consultation, were sent a copy of the consultation on the day it was launched and invited to respond. The consultation is available on the Department’s website.
The consultation will not result in any changes in Primary or Secondary legislation. The establishments which will be required to register as Independent Schools, should the new guidance be implemented, will already be operating and will only incur costs relating to implementing the Education (Independent School Standards) (England) Regulations 2003, amended 2004 and the Education (Independent School Inspection Fees and Publication) (England) Regulations 2003. These regulations were subject to a full consultation and Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) prior to their introduction. The RIA is available on the Department’s website.