HC Deb 29 April 1909 vol 4 c469
Mr. BOLAND

asked the Lord Advocate whether he had taken any, and, if so, what steps to inquire into the action of the Edinburgh School Board in refusing to give free books to any children in Catholic schools within their district; and could he state the result of his inquiry?

The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Ure)

I have made inquiry as suggested, and find the facts to be as follows: Reports in the sense indicated in the question were addressed to the Edinburgh School Board on behalf of certain voluntary schools on 21st January and 1st February. The Board, by eight votes to seven, resolved that no expenditure upon these items be made during the current financial year (ending May 15th next), but expressed an opinion that this provision should be made thereafter. Meanwhile, a School Board election has taken place, and the matter has not, as yet, been before the new Board for consideration.

Mr. BOLAND

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when this matter will come before the School Board again?

Mr. URE

No, sir; it depends upon the arrangements made by the School Board themselves.

Mr. WATT

Has this been a vital question in the recent elections?

Mr. URE

That I cannot say.