HC Deb 04 March 1937 vol 321 cc530-1
42. Mr. Walkden

asked the President of the Board of Education how many classes containing upwards of 30 pupils were in existence in elementary schools at the end of 1936 as compared with 1931; and what steps is he taking towards reducing such unduly large classes?

Mr. Stanley

The number of classes in public elementary schools in England and. Wales with more than 30 children on the roll on 31st March, 1931, was 107,316 out of a total of all classes of 152,062., and on 31st March, 1936, 104,001 out of a total of 148,841. I cannot accept the hon. Member's suggestion that classes in elementary schools of over 30 children should be regarded as unduly large.

Mr. Walkden

Is the Minister not aware that public opinion does not share his view on that matter?