§ 19. Captain DOWERasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether his attention has been called to the wearing of French berets by girls at Brownhills High School, Tunstall; and whether he will take steps to see that in all schools enjoying support from national funds wearing apparel manufactured in this country only is supplied?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Ramsbotham)My Noble Friend's attention had not previously been called to this matter, but he understands, from inquiries which have been made, that the wearing of a beret by the older girls at this particular school originated from a suggestion made by the girls themselves. The wearing of a beret is entirely optional, and the pupils are quite free to purchase them where they wish, provided only that, if worn, the colour matches the colour of the school uniform. In the circumstances, the question whether an article of British or foreign manufacture should be purchased is entirely one for the judgment of the parents concerned. No question of payment from national funds arises.
§ Mr. LYONSWill my hon. Friend see, when any contribution is made from national funds, that only British-made articles are obtained?