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Written question asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon (Independent Labour) on Tuesday, 16 June 2015, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 30 June 2015. It was answered by Lord Nash (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 June 2015 on behalf of the Department for Education.


European Union: Education

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what measures they intend to introduce to ensure that sections 406 and 407 of the Education Act 1996 are complied with in relation to the European Union, particularly before the holding of a referendum on the United Kingdom's membership of the European Union.

Answer

Schools are aware of their duties regarding impartiality and treatment of political issues. Sections 406 and 407 of the Education Act 1996 require maintained schools to prevent political indoctrination and secure the balanced treatment of political issues. This duty is reflected in the model funding agreement for academies and free schools.

In citizenship education, pupils are taught about local, regional and international governance and the United Kingdom’s relations with the rest of Europe, the Commonwealth, the United Nations and the wider world. Pupils will be equipped with the skills to think critically and debate political questions.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL521
Session
2015-16
Related items
European Union: Education
Monday, 20 July 2015
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects
Education European Union Referendums Political impartiality Schools UK membership of EU
Legislation
Education Act 1996
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk