§ 62. Mr. GULLANDasked the Secretary for Scotland, in view of the Circular from the Scottish Education Department urging school managers in Scotland to reduce the period of secular instruction to four hours daily in order to save fuel and light, whether he has made any calculation as to what economy will be effected; and whether that saving can be compared with the loss of educational facilities for the children of Scotland?
§ Mr. MUNROThe Circular in question was issued in consequence of representations made to me by the Controller of Coal Mines. I was satisfied on inquiry that in certain cases a substantial saving of 1287 fuel might be effected without any considerable loss of educational facilities, by the general adoption of a rearranged timetable, which is already sanctioned by the Code. This suggestion has accordingly been brought to the notice of school authorities. It is for them to make such arrangements as they may see fit in the circumstances of their districts.
§ Mr. GULLANDDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think it rather curious to pass a Bill to make better provision for Scottish education, and before the Act comes into operation to cut off one-fourth of the time of existing education?