§ 72. Sir PHILIP MAGNUSasked whether, laving regard to the representations of the Board of Education that they are unable during the War, unless under very exceptional circumstances, to inspect private schools, he will accept, pending further arrangements for inspection by the universities, the recommendation of the local education authority as to the crippling effect on the work of a private school of the calling up of its headmaster for military service?
§ Mr. BECKAs my hon. Friend is aware, I am in communication with the President of the Board of Education on this subject, and regret being unable to make any definite statement at present.
§ Sir P. MAGNUSWhen does the hon. Gentleman think it is likely that he will be able to make a definite statement with regard to this matter? A similar question was put some time ago.
§ Mr. BECKAs my hon. Friend is aware, an agreement was entered into as regards the protection of teachers of certain ages 1058 and medical categories, but this does not seem to cover every case, and we have to reinvestigate the subject in order to meet any difficulty which may arise.
§ Mr. L. JONESWill the hon. Member consider whether the calling up of these headmasters cannot be held over until the investigation takes place?
§ Mr. BECKMy right hon. Friend is aware that a large number of teachers are protected, but there are certain private schools which do not seem to be protected, and these privately-owned schools have to be considered.