§ MR. J. P. FARRELLI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he can state the reasons which induced the Commissioners of Intermediate Education in Ireland to abolish the preparatory grade in examinations under the Board; and also why it was that the age limit for the junior grade was increased.
§ MR. WALTER LONGThe preparatory grade has not been abolished, but the award of exhibitions in that grade has been discontinued for some years, for the reasons stated by my right hon. friend the Member for Dover in reply to a Question on June 20th, ‡ 1901. The age limit for the pass examinations of the junior and higher grades was increased in order to enable students between sixteen and nineteen to qualify for certificates. The limit of age for candidates for exhibitions and prizes has not been increased.
§ MR. J. P. FARRELLIs this to be a permanent arrangement?
§ MR. WALTER LONGI must ask for notice of that Question.