HC Deb 09 December 1926 vol 200 cc2270-1
24. Major KINDERSLEY

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is in a position to make any further statement with regard to the refusal of food to a miner's children at the canteen of Hedley Hill Council School and the action of the headmaster?

Lord E. PERCY

In the case to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, a summons for assaulting the boys was taken out by the parent against the headmaster, who appeared before the Petty Sessions on Thursday last. He was found guilty of assault and was fined 20 shillings in respect of each offence and £7 17s. 6d. costs. In view of this conviction the Board will take the usual steps to inquire into the conduct of the teacher concerned.

Major KINDERSLEY

Is it not a fact that this headmaster is well known in the neighbourhood as holding extreme Socialist views?

Mr. COVE

Is it not a fact that the education authority have already passed a Resolution of confidence in this headmaster?

Major Sir GRANVILLE WHELER

Can the Noble Lord say there is any question at all whether this man will be kept at his present post or any post in connection with education, considering what he has done?

Lord E. PERCY

I think it would be very much better if a case like this were not discussed now in any sense. I have to exercise judicial duties in a case of this kind, and I do not want to express any opinion or say anything at the moment.