HC Deb 06 July 1914 vol 64 cc821-2
46. Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the repeal of Section 8 of the Education Act, 1891, restores to full force Section 17 of the Education Act, 1870; whether it is the policy of the Government that every child attending a provided school should pay a fee unless the fee is remitted on the ground of poverty, as provided by Section 17 of the Act of 1870; and whether he will secure in any legislation dealing with this matter that henceforth free education shall be universal in all public elementary schools receiving State aid?

Mr. PEASE

The repeal of Section 8 of the Elementary Education Act, 1891, has not the effect suggested, because Section 17 of the Act of 1870 must still be read in conjunction with Schedule III. (5) of the Act of 1902. The reply to the second part of the question is emphatically in the negative. In reply to the third part of the question, I am prepared to take such steps as may be necessary to secure that every child whose parent desires it shall receive free elementary education.

Sir H. CRAIK

Is it not the case that many parents prefer to pay a fee, and that in every case where a fee-paid school is recognised there is ample provision for free education, accessible to all children?

Mr. KING

Have parents the right to send their children without fees to any school they like?

Mr. PEASE

I am aware that many parents apparently prefer to pay fees in connection with the education of their children, but at the same time I am not satisfied that everywhere that fees are paid there is a substantial number of free places for children of other parents, but in many cases these other parents have not asked for more free places than are being supplied at the present moment.

Sir H. CRAIK

If there are not free places available in that school, is it not always a condition of recognising a fee paid school that there is free education provided in a school that is accessible?

Mr. PEASE

It may be so, but then; there is great difference of opinion as to what is accessible. Sometimes the free places are at the other end of the town, and parents are not very eager to send their children from one end of the town to the other.