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Question

Asked by Lord Hylton

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have evidence of rising tensions between communities in Britain since early December 2008; if so, whether such tensions have led to offences against the person or damage to property; and whether they are consulting local religious and community groups so as to prevent breaches of the peace. [HL716]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Andrews): The tension monitoring returns, the process used by government to monitor tension levels in local areas, are shown evidence in some areas of rising tensions affecting some communities. The tension monitoring returns show there has been a significant rise in anti-Semitic attacks in Britain since December 2008; this is confirmed by Community Security Trust figures. The incidents reported include both offences against the person and damage to property. Over the last month the Government have made it a priority to meet faith communities and provide reassurance that we are taking the action necessary to help minimise tensions, tackle all forms of hate crime and prevent breaches of the peace.

Schools: Personal, Social and Health Education

Question

Asked by Baroness Gould of Potternewton

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, in the light of the Macdonald review on personal, social and health education not being completed before March, they will introduce legislation in time for preparation and implementation by schools for the academic year starting in September 2010. [HL674]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Children, Schools and Families (Baroness Morgan of Drefelin): The time needed for public consultation and the parliamentary process means that personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education would not become a statutory requirement in time for schools to prepare effectively to implement this in the academic year starting in September 2010. The department's standard practice is to allow schools at least one academic year to prepare for changes to the curriculum or qualifications.

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