HC Deb 27 June 1845 vol 81 cc1317-8
Mr. Ewart

, referring to the dispute which occurred in the School of Design, and which had resulted, he said, in the dismissal of the second master, and the withdrawal of the pupils almost without exception, wished to know whether the discord still continued, or whether there was any hope of its being settled?

Sir G. Clerk

said, a difference of opinion unfortunately arose in the early part of this year between the director of the school and some of the masters, regarding the principles upon which the education of the pupils should be conducted. Several of the students joined warmly on the side of the master, and expressed themselves disrespectfully of the character and attainments of the director. The council, considering this to be a gross act of insubordination, felt it to be their painful duty to interfere, by suspending the pupils who had so erred until they made an apology. The disagreement still continuing, the council felt themselves under the necessity of changing the second master; who had accordingly been, he would not say dismissed, but removed.