§ 73. Mr. Keyasked the President of the Board of Education how many authorities, in spite of Circular 1522, are still dismissing from their service teachers who are conscientious objectors or members of the Peace Pledge Union; how many teachers have already been dismissed or suspended; and what pressure is being brought to bear on local education authorities to reinstate them?
§ Mr. RamsbothamI have no information on the first two parts of the Question. As regards the last part, I would refer the hon. Member to the Memorandum issued by my Department to local education authorities on 26th July, of which I have already sent him a copy.
§ Mr. KeyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that that Memorandum does not deal with the reinstatement of people who have been wrongly dismissed. Will the Board of Education take steps to see that people who have been unjustly dismissed are reinstated?
§ Mr. RamsbothamAs the House knows, the authorities have the power to engage, employ or dismiss teachers. All I can do where difficulties arise is to issue principles for guidance, and that I have done.
§ Mr. Ralph EthertonAre not conscientious objectors wholly unsuitable persons to teach children?
Miss RathboneWill the right hon. Gentleman see that the circular to which he has referred reaches all authorities?