HC Deb 11 March 1902 vol 104 cc1027-8
DR. MACNAMARA (Camberwell, N.)

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the fact that, under the minute of the Board of Education of 3rd July last, it will be impossible for School Boards to draw upon the School Board rates after 31st July next, on account of the instruction in public elementary night schools of any pupils over fifteen years of age; whether, seeing that on the official figures for the night school session, 1899–1900, this would have meant that 68 per cent. of the 332,042 pupils then enrolled in School Board night schools, would have been shut out from rate-aided night school instruction; and, whether, seeing that the current figures would involve pupils in somewhat similar proportions, it is the intention of the Government to take steps to remove this disability before the 31st July next.

THE FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Mr. A.J.BALFOUR,) Manchester, E.

The point referred to in the Question has not escaped the attention of the Government. I can assure the hon. Member that the assurance given by the President of the Council in another place has not been lost sight of, and, of course. we shall have to provide for the contingency.

DR. MACNAMARA

Do I gather that the right hon. Gentleman gives a similar assurance to the House here today?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

Yes, Sir.