§ SIR HENRY TYLERasked the Vice President of the Council, "Whether his attention has been called to a statement in the public press on the subject of the employment of Mrs. Besant in the Hall of Science Classes, and their connection with the Science and Art Department of the Government; whether any letter has been addressed to him by the Committee of those classes; and, if so, whether he will lay it upon the Table; and, whether the daughters of Mr. Bradlaugh are employed in those classes, or in any way in connection with the Science and Art Department of Government?
§ MR. MUNDELLASir, I have seen the statement to which the hon. Member refers, and I will read the letter addressed to me by the Committee—
§ "Science Classes, Hall of Science, Minor Hall, 142, Old Street, London, E.C.
§ "Sir,—Referring to so much of the answer given by you to Sir Henry Tyler on Tuesday, March 21, as relates to Mrs. Besant, the Committee of the above classes desire me to state that there has been no withdrawal by them of Mrs. Besant's name as teacher; and as some misconception may arise from your answer as reported, the Committee would feel obliged if you would take such early occasion as may be convenient to yourself to make the necessary correction.
§ "I am, Sir, your most obedient servant,
§ "ROBERT FORDER, Secretary."
§ I certainly understood from two Members of the Committee that Mrs. Besant had withdrawn her name as teacher for this session, with the intention of subsequently renewing her application. The 544 Misses Bradlaugh are teaching chemistry and botany, I believe, to the adult classes of the Hall of Science. I understand they are well qualified, and hold certificates from the Science and Art Department to that effect. I may say we do not inquire into the theological opinions of teachers of art and science.