A TORY councillor was assured Darlington had no rigid dogma relating to the amalgamation of infants' and junior schools.

Coun Roderick Burtt of Hurworth raised the issue of amalgamation when Wednesday's school organisation committee voted in favour of the plan for the next five years.

The plan outlines the advantages of all-through primary schools, including educational and financial arguments in favour.

It says the authority would seek to amalgamate wherever the advantages could be achieved, particularly to raise overall educational standards.

"Is there a dogma policy for infants' and junior schools?" asked Coun Burtt. "It seems to me it is just going to happen as the opportunity arises and when it is convenient."

But Mr David Staples, assistant director of education, countered: "It is not being done for convenience. It is damn hard work.

"We judge every single case on its merits with the intention of improving the educational opportunities for children.

"It is not to say there will never be any more amalgamations - but they will be based on exactly the same educational arguments."

Coun Burtt said there had been some concerns about the methods of consultation in recent amalgamations.

Chairman, Mr Paul Briggs, who represents the Roman Catholic Church, pointed out that the committee - which has the final say - would be able to say in the early stages if it did not approve of how the consultation process was being carried out.

Coun Eleanor Lister, declared: "There is no dogma. What we are trying to do is the best for our schools and their children.