§ 76. Mr. KINGasked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that £26,331 was paid last year as school pence in 141 ordinary elementary schools in twenty cathedral cities of England; and whether he will institute an inquiry whether the education given in these schools is superior to that given in the council and non-provided schools in London, in all of which schools free education is provided?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Trevelyan)I do not wish to question the accuracy of the hon. Member's figures, but my right hon. Friend does not propose to 1917 institute an inquiry of the nature suggested, since the Statute under which the fees are charged does not necessarily require the education to be superior to that given in ordinary schools.
§ Mr. KINGDoes not the hon. Gentleman realise that when money is paid for an article which is generally supplied free, you expect to get something of a better quality?
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSDoes that apply to the £400 a year?