§ 46. Mr. HARRISasked the Prime Minister when it is proposed to take the Second Reading of the Education (School Attendance) Bill?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)I am unable to give any undertaking in the present condition of business as to a date for the Second Reading of the School Attendance Bill; but, as has already been stated, the Government intend to secure its passage into law before the end of the year.
§ Mr. HARRISIs the Prime Minister aware that unfortunately some local authorities, including, I understand, London, are refusing to make the necessary provision for the extra year in the school age, either by the training of the necessary teachers or the provision of the necessary buildings until the Bill becomes an Act of Parliament—in other words, until they are compelled?
§ Mr. SMITHERSCan the right hon. Gentleman indicate to the House in round figures what will be the cost to the State?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is quite obviously a question that should be addressed to the Department.
§ Mr. SMITHERSWe have tried that.
§ The PRIME MINISTERMy hon. Friend must persevere. With reference to the other question, that again ought to be addressed to the Department. My responsibility is for providing time for the Bill.
§ Mr. BEAUMONTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is very considerable doubt in the country, possibly regrettable doubt, as to whether the term of the present Government will be long enough to permit of the introduction of that Bill?