HC Deb 11 April 1940 vol 359 c696
42. Major Sir Jocelyn Lucas

asked the President of the Board of Education what opportunities are granted to school-children to listen-in to broadcasts on various Empire subjects and countries; what opportunities are given for seeing the Empire films belonging to the Imperial Institute; and whether full use is being made of the films available?

Mr. Lindsay

I understand that nearly 10,000 schools are now registered with the Central Council for School Broadcasting, and it is known that a very large number of classes in schools listen to the broadcast talks on Empire subjects and countries. I am glad to say that the programme of the Central Council recently published for the summer term included a series of talks on "Peoples of the Empire." Films dealing with Empire subjects may be obtained by schools, free of charge except for carriage, from the Imperial Institute, and I am informed that full use is being made of this service.

Mr. R. Gibson

What is the purpose and the effect of registration by the schools?

43. Sir J. Lucas

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he can now state the result of his conversations with the Secretary of State for the Colonies with reference to the teaching schoolchildren something of the way all parts of the Empire have rallied to this country, both in materials and manpower; and also of the responsibility which devolves on us to develop and help the Empire; and the way in which we are doing it?

Mr. Lindsay

A number of the Board's inspectors have been busy for some weeks on a detailed scheme whereby the teaching in the schools may best contribute to a real understanding of the problems of the Empire. As soon as their work is completed, my right hon. Friend will seek the co-operation of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies to secure the objects outlined in the Question.