§ Mr. A. G. C. HARVEYasked the President of the Board of Education if, before introducing any Bill to abolish half-time exemption in elementary schools, in accordance with the recommendation of the Departmental Committee, he will take steps to ascertain whether the instruction given in the upper standards of the schools in which the children are to be retained is of such a character that they will be spending their time profitably in the schools, and not be merely marking time?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI shall certainly not take any steps to deal with the half-time question without considering it in all its bearings. The character of the instruction given in our public elementary schools, particularly in the upper standards, is a matter to which I am giving and shall continue to give careful attention with a view to securing such improvements and developments as are necessary and practicable. My hon. Friend is, I think, aware of the efforts which are being made by the Board to improve the opportunities for efficient instruction in respect of teaching rooms, staff, and curriculum.