§ 45. Mr. KINGasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that in 1905 a Bill was introduced into this House entitled the Education Authorities (Access to Books and Documents) Bill; that this Bill was designed to restore to ratepayers the right of publicity on educational matters; that 884 it was backed by six Unionist and four Liberal Members and was received with much favour; and whether he will embody the object of this Bill in the promised Education Bill or will add it as a condition of the new education Grants to be inserted in the Revenue Bill?
§ Mr. TREVELYANMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I am aware that such a Bill was introduced, but it was not debated, and I am not aware that it was received with much favour. The only representations made to the Board in the matter which I can trace were unfavourable to the Bill. The point raised will receive consideration, but I am not in a position to make any statement on the subject.
§ 48. Mr. CLOUGHasked the Prime Minister when it is proposed to introduce the measure promised in His Majesty's most Gracious Speech on 10th February, 1914, to give effect to the proposals for the development of a national system of education, which were announced by the President of the Board of Education on 22nd July, 1913?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)Owing to pressure of Parliamentary work I am afraid that any measure we can now introduce must be one of a limited character. The Grant of money announced in the Budget will, however, greatly contribute to the development of that national system of education to which my right hon. Friend referred last year.
§ The PRIME MINISTERI cannot give a date.