89. Lieut.-Colonel Acland Troyteasked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that a considerable number of conscientious objectors are being granted exemption on condition that they remain in the teaching profession; and whether, in view of the danger to the country of the spread of the views held by these people, he will take steps to ensure that they are not employed in any schools which receive State grants?
§ The President of the Board of Education (Mr. Ramsbotham)I have no information on the matter, but I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that the appointment of teachers and the termination of their appointment are the responsibility of the local education authorities or governing bodies of schools, as the case may be. As regards the last part of the Question, I have no reason to suppose that the teachers concerned would fail to observe the principle, to which the teaching profession itself attaches great importance, that political propaganda should in no circumstances be introduced into the schools.
Lieut.-Colonel Acland TroyteWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, might I ask whether he does not think it undesirable that patriotic citizens should be forced to send their children to be taught by these people, and will he use his influence with local authorities to prevent their being employed?
§ Mr. RamsbothamIf there is any evidence of political propaganda by such persons, steps can, and will, be taken.