84. Captain FABERasked the President of the Board of Education how many children are now absent from Butlocks Heath school; for how many weeks the dispute has lasted; and whether he means to take action against those parents who refuse to allow their children to attend school; and, if so, when?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Trevelyan)My right hon. Friend is informed that the number of children of school age who have ceased to attend this school is seventy-seven. The withdrawals from the school began in the second week in April. The enforcement of attendance at school in cases where children are not 790 under efficient instruction in some other manner is a matter for the local education authority.
Captain FABERHas not part of the confusion in this school arisen from the fact that the sexes are mixed up?
§ Mr. TREVELYANI would ask for notice of that question.
§ Lord ROBERT CECILWill the hon. Gentleman make some inquiry into the condition of the school for the information of Members of this House?
§ Mr. TREVELYANI believe the local education authority is watching the matter very carefully, and there are reasons for not interfering at this moment.
§ Mr. ROWLANDSHas not an inquiry been asked for by the parents who have had to take their children away from this school?
§ Mr. TREVELYANI cannot say.
§ Mr. TREVELYANWe have a certain amount of information from our inspectors.
§ Mr. KINGWill the hon. Gentleman press for a distinct and full report upon the difficulties that have arisen?
§ Mr. TREVELYANI will ask my right hon. Friend.