asked the Minister for Education the counties in which the extra teaching posts in disadvantaged areas as recommended by a working party under the auspices of the Programme for National Recovery have been allocated; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

The 175 posts were distributed to the areas of greatest need following consultation with the inspectorate and the psychological service.

It is important to note that account was also taken of the effect which the change in pupil/teacher ratio would have on committees where there was a number of permanent teachers already in excess of pupil/teacher ratio.

A tabular statement is attached which I am circulating with the Official Report: