Introductory text

Whereas, following the referral to it of a proposal by the Secretary of State in accordance with subsection (2) of section 368 of the Education Act 1996^f1, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (“QCA”)^f2 has, in accordance with subsection (3) of that section, given notice thereof to the bodies and persons referred to in that subsection and afforded them a reasonable opportunity of submitting evidence and representations as to the issues arising;

And whereas, in accordance with directions given by the Secretary of State under the said subsection (2), the QCA has submitted its report to the Secretary of State in accordance with subsection (4) of the said section 368;

And whereas the QCA has, after submitting its report to the Secretary of State, arranged for it to be published in accordance with subsection (5) of that section;

And whereas the Secretary of State has published a draft of the Regulations and sent copies of it to the QCA and all those who were consulted by the QCA, and has allowed a period of not less than one month for the submission of evidence and representations as to the issues arising in accordance with subsection (7) of that section;