HC Deb 09 February 1915 vol 69 cc386-7
14. Colonel YATE

asked the President of the Board of Education what steps have been taken to carry into effect the resolution carried at the annual conference of the Incorporated Association of Head Masters in Secondary Schools in London, on the 5th January last, that instruction in the elements of military drill and the use of the rifle should form part of the education of all boys in secondary schools?

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

I cannot undertake to see that the terms of the resolution referred to are carried out, although I am fully aware of the success which has attended the formation of Cadet Corps and contingents of the Officers' Training Corps in many secondary schools, but the question of what further steps should be taken to extend their number is one for the consideration of the War Office and Territorial Associations.

Colonel YATE

Will not the right hon. Gentleman take the initiative in the question and call the attention of secondary schools to the resolution?

Mr. PEASE

These are matters connected with other Departments, and it is not for me to interfere with the administration of those other Departments.