HC Deb 21 March 1901 vol 91 c724
MR. J. F. X. O'BRIEN (Cork)

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate whether he is aware that Greenock School Board provides prizes out of the public rate for the children attending the schools under their charge, which are really denominational in the sense that the Presbyterian religion is taught; and, whether, in these circumstances, he is prepared to instruct that a share of the prizes purchased by the Board be given all Government-inspected schools in proportion to the average attendance.

*MR. A. GRAHAM MURRAY

I am aware that the School Board of Greenock, like many school boards in Scotland, provide prizes for children in attendance at the public schools out of the school fund. I know of nothing in the Education Acts which would warrant the payment from the school fund of prizes to children in attendance at other than public schools.

MR. J. F. X. O'BRIEN

But is this rule fair to the Catholic children?

*MR. A. GRAHAM MURRAY

I think so. It would be an entirely new departure to take the rates for the purpose suggested.

MR. J. F. X. O'BRIEN

But is not the Greenock School practically a denominational school?

*MR. A. GRAHAM MURRAY

That is a matter of argument.

MR. J. F. X. O'BRIEN

Ought not the rule to be abandoned as unjust to Catholic children, and the prizes provided by Private people?

*MR. SPEAKER

Order, order! The hon. Member is now arguing the question.