HC Deb 28 June 1917 vol 95 c535
71. Mr. KING

asked whether a local authority refusing the fee Grant may in future charge fees in its elementary schools and have the financial deficiency made up from the new Grant on the conditions announced in the new Code; whether this possibility has been fully considered; whether it was contemplated when the new Code was published; and whether it is the policy of the Board to leave to local authorities the maintenance, extension, or restriction of free education in elementary schools?

Mr. LEWIS

I am satisfied that the power of the Board to withhold approval of fees is adequate to prevent the adoption of the device suggested. I would refer the hon. Member to Schedule 3 (5) of the Education Act of 1902 and to Article 55 of the Code.