§ Mr. MORGAN JONES(by Private Notice) asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether the recent Circular 1421, dealing with the increase of fees in secondary schools, was issued after consultation with the Economy Committee of which members of local authorities are members, and whether he can state the saving which is estimated to accrue from the economies foreshadowed in the Circular?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Ramsbotham)The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. In regard to the second part, while it is obviously impossible to frame a close estimate, the Board anticipate an ultimate saving of the order of £400,000 per annum, divided equally between rates and taxes.
§ Mr. JONESAre we to take it that, while the Government require advice from local authorities in regard to other economies, they proceeded without such advice in regard to these particular economies?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMThe Board of Education have taken the advice of an advisory committee representing local authorities for many months past, and have utilised that advice when discussing the framing of measures.
§ Sir PERCY HARRISAm I to understand that this circular was issued on the advice of this advisory committee, or with their approval?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMThe advisory committee did not have the question of approval referred to them. Their function was to advise the Board as to administrative methods to be taken in carrying out proposals from time to time.
§ Mr. JONESAre we to understand from the answer we have just received that the representatives of the local authorities did, in point of fact, recommend to the Board the proposals of Circular 1421?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMI think the hon. Member must be content with the answer which I have given him.