§ 99. Lieut.-Colonel CROFTasked the President of the Board of Education whether he will consider the desirability of making St. George's Day a holiday for English school children, and issuing instructions that the previous day be set apart for special teaching on the great events in English history?
Mr. WOODI think the question whether my hon. and gallant. Friend's suggestions should be adopted is one which is rightly left to the discretion of local education and school authorities. I do not doubt that these bodies are fully alive to the importance of the considerations present to his mind.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTIs it not the fact that the Scottish and the Welsh celebrate their national saint days in this manner? Is anything likely to be done unless the hon. Gentleman makes a move himself?
Mr. WOODI am afraid I have no knowledge of what Scotland may do in this matter. I have no power to require local authorities to do this. If they are willing to do it I shall be only too glad.
§ Mr. LANSBURYWill the hon. Gentleman also consider recommending the local education authorities to give instruction on international history on 30th April and set apart 1st May as an international holiday?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs it not a fact that St.. George is a more inspiring figure than Herr Karl Marx?