HC Deb 28 July 1927 vol 209 cc1426-7
10. Mr. SOMERVILLE

asked the President of the Board of Education whether his attention has been directed to the action of the Merthyr Tydfil Education Authority in compelling teachers to retire at the age of 60; and whether, as such a regulation bears with especial severity upon secondary teachers, who enter upon pensionable service later than other teachers, he will inquire into the matter?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Lord Eustace Percy)

My attention has been drawn to the action of the Merthyr Tydfil Authority. The matter is one which lies within the discretion of the authority, so far as teachers in their employment are concerned, and I do not think that I can justifiably intervene.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

In view of the fact that the policy of the education authorities is contrary to the spirit of the Pensions Act, 1925, will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence with them to modify that policy?

Lord E. PERCY

I do not think it would be possible to say that the Pensions Act, 1925, either in terms or by implication interfered with the discretion of the authorities in regard to the engagement of their teachers which was provided for in the Act of 1918, or rather in the Act of 1921. In view of the provisions of the Act of 1921 giving discretion to the authorities in this matter, I do not think I have any right to interfere.