HC Deb 06 December 1938 vol 342 c970
8. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has observed that, while Paisley and Greenock have each 23 headmasters or headmistresses of schools, those in Paisley have five full-time and two part-time clerical assistants, whereas those in Greenock have only three full-time and no part-time clerical assistants; and whether, in the interests of educational efficiency in the utilising of the services of headmasters and headmistresses in Greenock, he will make representations to the education committee of the Renfrewshire County Council towards increasing such clerical assistants in Greenock schools?

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As to the second part, I would refer the hon. and learned Member to my answer to his question on 22nd November, 1938.

Mr. Gibson

Do I understand from that reply that representations have been made to the local authorities by the right hon. Gentleman since the answer which he gave some weeks ago in reference to this subject?

Mr. Colville

I said in that answer that the question of extending the employment of such clerical assistants is one which might properly be left to the initiative of the local authorities concerned. I have been in touch with the local authorities, but in view of what I said I do not feel able to press the local authorities against their judgment in this matter.

Mr. Gibson

But do I understand that some representations have been made to the local authorities, and that the matter has been left with them?

Mr. Colville

I have been in touch with the local authorities to ascertain their views.