MINISTERS are ready to turn the screw on the Educational Institute of Scotland which continues to refuse heads a formal place on the Scottish Negotiating Committee for Teachers.

Nicol Stephen, Deputy Education Minister, said colleagues were “frustrated” and forecast action by the Scottish Executive. He did not rule out legislation.

Both primary and secondary heads’ organisations are miffed they have not been included in the mainstream talks although they have a place on the teachers’ subgroup.

“Two years on, it’s an important issue and we have to get it cracked,” Mr Stephen said.

David Cameron, head of education in East Lothian, said heads should have their own place in national negotiations but represent management at local level.