HC Deb 06 July 1916 vol 83 cc1654-5
21. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to resolutions passed unanimously by various public bodies in county Clare, including the county council, expressing the hope that the salaries of national teachers would be paid monthly and that a war bonus should be granted to the teachers; and whether, in view of the fact that while prices have gone up in regard to all requirements of life the salaries have remained at their former low level, he will take steps to have effect given to the resolutions of these public bodies acquainted with local conditions?

Mr. SAMUEL

I am aware that resolutions have been passed in the sense referred to, but regret that I am not able to add anything to the replies given on the 1st March last by the late Chief Secretary to questions on this subject by the hon. Baronet the Member for North Wexford.

Sir E. CARSON

Has the right hon. Gentleman ever looked into the question of paying these national teachers monthly?

Mr. SAMUEL

Yes, I have inquired into the question, but there are great financial difficulties in making a change which would involve making twelve monthly payments in one year. At present the Treasury cannot see their way.

Mr. LYNCH

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman to entertain a very reasonable proposition on the part of the teachers, namely, to grant the concession simply for the current three months?

Mr. SAMUEL

I do not think that would satisfy the teachers.

Mr. LYNCH

If it would satisfy them, would he consider that very reasonable proposition?

Mr. SAMUEL

I understand various attempts have been made to come to an agreement with the representatives of the teachers, but not, so far, successfully. If the hon. Member will send me any communication he is in a position to make on behalf of the teachers, I assure him it will be considered.