To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what average amount of time a school of each type spent in special measures in the latest period for which figures are available. (151238)

The following table provides the information requested, in respect of schools removed from special measures during the autumn term 2006 and the spring term 2007.

Turnaround times for schools in special measures have reduced since 1997. For example, the average time primary schools spent in special measures in 1997/98 academic year was 23 months. The equivalent figure for secondary schools was 28 months.

To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families how many schools (a) in each local education authority and (b) of each type were classified as causing concern for more than two years in each of the last 10 years; and how many of those schools have since been closed. (151240)

This is a matter for Ofsted. HM Chief Inspector, Christine Gilbert, has written to the hon. Member and a copy of her reply has been placed in the House Library.