HC Deb 15 May 1924 vol 173 cc1533-4
44. Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

asked the President of the Board of Education how many local education authorities have applied for powers to raise the school-leaving age in their areas to 15, and if representations have been received from any education authorities to the effect that, while wishing to raise the school-leaving age to 15, they are unable to do so unless this age is fixed for the whole country?

Mr. TREVELYAN

The Board have at different times since October, 1919, received proposals from 15 local education authorities for the approval of bye-laws raising the school-leaving age to 15. They have also received a resolution from one authority to the effect that the raising of the age should be of general application throughout the country, and suggesting legislation for that purpose.

Viscountess ASTOR

Is not now the time for the Labour Government to put into practice what they always preached and raise the school age to 15 owing to the unemployment throughout the country?

Mr. TREVELYAN

I should be very glad to assist any local authorities who wish to raise the school age.

Viscountess ASTOR

That was part of your official programme, to raise the school age.

Mr. TREVELYAN

I have no doubt when we have time we shall do so.

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