HC Deb 03 April 1930 vol 237 c1446
49. Mr. MANDER

asked the President of the Board of Education what steps have been taken to carry out the Report of the Ministry of Labour Committee on Domestic Service in 1923, in respect of Recommendation No. 76, that training in domestic science should be a regular feature of instruction in all elementary, central, and secondary schools, and that open examinations, with certificates of proficiency, should be established?

Major COLFOX

On a point of Order. Can an hon. Member expect an answer to a question which he has asked without rising from his seat?

Mr. SPEAKER

It would be better if hon. Members did rise.

Mr. MANDER

I did rise from my seat.

Sir C. TREVELYAN

Instruction in domestic science is regarded as a normal part of the curriculum for girls in secondary schools and for older girls in central and other elementary schools. Opportunities for this work are being continually increased as part of the general improvement in school buildings and organisation. Domestic science is included as one of the optional subjects in the syllabus of the school certificate examinations taken by pupils in secondary schools, but it was not thought desirable for the Board to set up any special examination in this subject.