To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many pupils were excluded for racist bullying in the most recent period for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. (133968)

In 2004-05, the most recent year for which we have data, there were 40 permanent and 3,390 fixed period exclusions for racist abuse. In addition there were 130 permanent and 7,680 fixed period exclusions for all types of bullying. We deplore racist bullying and fully back teachers and head teachers in taking tough action whenever it occurs.