§ MR. JACKSONasked the Vice President of the Council, Whether it is true that inquiries have been made through the Inspectors as to the alleged existence of over-pressure in Elementally Schools; and, if so, whether lie is in a position to state generally the tenour of the replies?
§ MR. MUNDELLAYes, Sir; we have consulted Her Majesty's Inspectors as to the alleged existence of over-pressure in Elementary Schools; and the overwhelming weight of evidence shows that, so far as the children and the requirements of the Code are concerned, it does not exist. We are, however, satisfied that cases of over-pressure may occur under any Code that could be devised; and we have taken every possible precaution against this in the Code which now lies on the Table. We are, however, confirmed in our opinion that the reduction of the hours of teaching by female pupil-teachers was absolutely necessary, and we should be glad if still farther relief could be given to them. I would remind the House that I have caused every complaint of overpressure alleged to be duo to the Code to be inquired into, and in every instance the case has broken down.
§ MR. STANLEY LEIGHTONasked if the right hon. Gentleman intended to publish the Reports of the Inspectors as they were received?
§ MR. MUNDELLAsaid, in all cases of special investigation the details would certainly be published.
§ MR. STANLEY LEIGHTONBut the Reports of the Inspectors, will they be published?
§ MR. MUNDELLACertainly not. They are confidential documents made to the Department, very often reflecting on managers. It would not be conducive to the work of the Department to publish them.