18. Duchess of ATHOLLasked the Minister of Labour by what means junior instruction centres and junior instruction classes are endeavouring to help the young people who attend them to adapt themselves to Changes of occupation; and whether any figures can be given showing the changes of occupation these centres and classes have been able to bring about?
§ Miss BONDFIELDDetails of the curricula at junior instruction centres and classes are within the discretion of the local education authorities concerned and differ widely, but the general principles follow those laid down in Appendix I of the First Report of the National Advisory Council for Juvenile Employment (England and Wales). The instruction given is not aimed at preparing juveniles to enter particular occupations. Since February, 1928, however, over 5,000 boys have been transferred from the depressed mining areas to employment in other parts of the country in circumstances which have ordinarily involved a change of occupation. The great majority of these had been in attendance at junior instruction centres prior to their transfer.
Duchess of ATHOLLCan the right hon. Lady say if instructions are given 598 to those in charge of junior instruction centres and classes that they should press upon the young people the desirability of being adaptable to enter new occupations which she herself has said is so desirable?
§ Miss BONDFIELDThat is done.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODI hope it is not a question of training the young people of my class as servants for duchesses.