HC Deb 23 June 1921 vol 143 cc1546-7
82. Mr. LAWSON

asked the President of the Board of Education at what date he proposes to issue a statement defining the attitude of the Board to the findings of the various Burnham Committees?

Mr. LEWIS

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for Pontypool on the 15th June.

83. Mr. HALLS

asked the President of the Board of Education if it is proposed to reduce the expenditure of the Board by 20 per cent. during the current financial year; and, if so, whether, in view of his statement that 65 per cent. of local educa- tional expenditure is in respect to teachers' salaries, it will be possible to reduce the annual Education Vote by 20 per cent. without prejudice to the findings of the various Burnham committees?

Mr. LEWIS

The question how far and by what means it is possible to reduce the expenditure of the Board of Education is under consideration. I am not in a position to make any further statement at present.

Mr. LAWSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the order to reduce expenditure by 20 per cent. is already hindering the work of building elementary schools? Is that the policy of the Board of Education?

Mr. LEWIS

I have already said that this matter is under consideration by the Board of Education, and that I am not at present in a position to give any further information.