HC Deb 30 July 1913 vol 56 cc520-1
34. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether, having regard to the approval which he has given to the managers of Oakham national school in their giving religious instruction contrary to their trust deed, he will intimate to them that they may appoint, if they desire, any qualified person, regardless of religious persuasion, as headmaster of the school?

Mr. TREVELYAN

As appears from my answers to previous questions with regard to this school, the assumption on which this question is based is incorrect. I do not propose to give any such intimation as is suggested by the hon. Member.

Mr. KING

Is it the intention, therefore, to allow a latitude in the consideration of trusts when they are convenient to one party, but to narrow them when they are for the convenience of the other side?

Mr. TREVELYAN

That is not a justifiable interpretation of the answer I have given.

35. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that a difference has arisen in connection with the religious education given at the national school at Oakham, and the bishop has not been called on to decide upon the interpretation of the trust; whether other school managers with national society's trusts will be allowed to violate their trusts; and whether a circular will be addressed to all such schools and all local education authorities pointing out that similar arrangements to those made at Oakham will be allowed?

Mr. TREVELYAN

I am not aware that such a difference has arisen, and I do not know whether the bishop has been called on to decide upon the interpretation of the trust deed. I will consider the necessity of taking action with regard to any alleged violation of trusts with which I have power to deal when it is brought to my notice. I have no intention of issuing such a circular as is suggested by the hon. Member.