Q&A: Why might we be returning to O-level style exams?

A row has broken out between the Lib Dems and Conservatives over plans to scrap GCSEs in England. Education Secretary Michael Gove is considering scrapping GCSEs and replacing them with O-level style exams. We look at some of the arguments behind the proposals being reported.

<paragraph>Why might we be returning to O-level style exams?</paragraph>

<paragraph>What were O-levels and CSEs?</paragraph>

<paragraph>Why were they replaced?</paragraph>

<paragraph>What criticism has there been of them?</paragraph>

<paragraph> Would new-style O-levels be tougher?</paragraph>

<paragraph>Will exams outside of England be devalued?</paragraph>