There appears to be a conflict between the aims of the national curriculum and proposed testing at seven, 11, 14 and 16 and the aims of the 1981 Education Act in relation to integration. Many children within the estimated 18% who have special needs in ordinary schools may not be able to attain the levels required at various stages, and therefore may be seen ‐ and see themselves ‐ as failures. This could result in more pupils being given statements of special educational needs and being segregated from the mainstream. Is the government aware of this risk, and, if so, what does it intend to do about