HC Deb 27 November 1922 vol 159 c263
15. Mr. BROTHERTON

asked the President of the Board of Education if he is aware that the town council of Gateshead has decided to dismiss all teachers in its service and that all the elementary schools are now closed and have been closed since 31st October; if he can explain how this state of things has arisen; and what action he intends to take in the matter?

Mr. WOOD

I understand that the local education authority for Gateshead proposed that the scale of salaries for teachers in public elementary schools of the area should be reduced from Standard Scale III of the Burnham Committee's Report to Standard Scale II. The teachers concerned did not agree to the proposal, and the authority, therefore, decided to give them notice for the termination of their engagements, intending to re-engage them at the lower scale. The teachers have net consented to this, and the schools are at present closed. I am watching the situation closely, and hope that an opportunity may occur for a re-consideration of the position by all parties concerned.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Does the local authority get the grant under these circumstances?

Mr. BROTHERTON

Is there no means by which you can interfere with the unfortunate system which is causing 23,000 children not to be receiving education?