HC Deb 18 February 1918 vol 103 c456
44. Mr. LEES-SMITH

asked the President of the Board of Education whether Clause 17 of the Education Bill will make it possible to introduce military drilling into school camps?

Mr. HERBERT FISHER

The object of Clause 17 is the promotion of social and physical training for educational purposes on educational lines; it does not contemplate military drill for military purposes.

Mr. SMITH

Will the right hon. Gentleman bring in a Clause which will make it impossible to introduce military discipline?

Mr. WHITEHOUSE

Does not the Clause referring to this question leave the matter in the discretion of the local authorities as to whether they introduce military drill or not?

Mr. FISHER

No, Sir. The Clause requires that the arrangements made by the local education authority shall be subject to the Board of Education.

Sir H. CRAIK

Is it not the case that all over the country, both in England and Scotland, schoolmasters find that the manuals of military drill are adapted for the work they have to do?

Mr. SMITH

Is it not the case that Swedish exercises are far the best form of drill?

Mr. SPEAKER

Hon. Members are anticipating the discussion which will take place.