§ 35. Sir HENRY CRAIKasked the President of the Board of Education whether the Herefordshire Education Committee were prepared to accept the offer made, on the recommendation of the Bishop of Hereford, by the clergy of his diocese to take the place of the young schoolmasters who had joined the Army, but permission was refused by the Board of Education on the ground that they did not think that the present position of affairs justified an alteration of the Code; and whether he is prepared to modify the regulations so as to permit the clergy of all denominations to assist in the work of schools, and so liberate men of military age who desire to serve in the Army?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Herbert Lewis)On the 3lst May the county education secretary of Herefordshire addressed to the Board an inquiry of a rather hypothetical character as to 22 their willingness to waive Article 11 (d) of the Code. The provision in question embodies a principle to which great importance has been attached for fifty years. and the suspension of its operation might lead to undesirable controversy. In the absence of evidence of a strong general wish and agreement that the suspension of the article is desirable, my right hon. Friend would not feel justified in making: a Minute for the purpose before Parliament.
§ Sir H. CRAIKDoes the right hon. Gentleman think that the great evil which he fears will be caused by permitting ministers of all denominations to take part in the instruction in the schools so as to release the younger teachers?
§ Mr. KINGWill the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that this alteration of the Code will not be effected without Parliament being consulted?