§ 26. Mr. MARTIN (for Miss CAZALET)asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether the examination into the question of the raising of the school-leaving age has yet been completed by his Department; and when he is likely to be able to make a statement on this matter?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Ramsbotham)The examination into the question of the raising of the school-leaving age is still proceeding, and I am afraid that I am not yet in a position to say when it will be possible to make a statement.
§ Mr. MARTINHas my hon. Friend seen the statement in the Press to-day that a decision has been taken?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMYes, and it is quite inaccurate.
§ Sir PERCY HARRISIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Department
§ has been considering this problem for over a year? How much longer will this inquiry be proceeding before the Department is able to come to some conclusion one way or the other?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMIt is an exceedingly complicated matter and must take some time to settle.
§ Mr. PIKEWill title Minister bear in mind, in coming to a decision, the grave shortage of juvenile labour in industrial areas?