HC Deb 13 May 1914 vol 62 cc1104-5
38. Mr. C. BATHURST

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he realises that set-back which higher education, particularly in rural areas, has suffered during the last twelve months owing to the reduction of Grants by the Board of Education in respect of continuation classes through lack of financial resources; and whether he will include among the new Exchequer Grants proposed to be made to the local authorities for educational purposes a special contribution to this, the weakest and most important rung in the educational ladder?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. J. A. Pease)

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I have received no evidence of a general set-back in higher education, such as the hon. Member suggests. I am, however, aware of the difficulties attending the organisation of continuation classes in rural districts, and the point raised will not be overlooked.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Has the right hon. Gentleman any reason for refusing Grants to continuation schools?

Mr. PEASE

So far as I am aware there has been no reduction of any Grant to continuation schools.

Mr. C. BATHURST

There is in my county.