HC Deb 11 July 1940 vol 362 cc1328-9
12. Sir Walter Smiles

asked the President of the Board of Education the position as regards cadet corps in the London County Council schools; and whether boys are now given opportunities for any military training?

Mr. Ramsbotham

There are at present no cadet corps in schools provided by the London County Council, but I understand that the Council have allowed cadet corps the use of playgrounds of provided elementary schools and other facilities. In addition, officers' training corps and cadet corps are to be found in a small number of schools not provided but aided by the Council.

Sir W. Smiles

Is it not a great misfortune for the country that the London County Council adopted such an unfortunate attitude in the past?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I think that what I have said shows a very satisfactory advance on previous policy.

Mr. Lindsay

Is it still true that there is no maintained secondary school under the London County Council where cadet corps are allowed?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I have said that at present there are no cadet corps in the schools maintained by the London County Council.

Commander Sir Archibald Southby

Has the view of the London County Council about the training of men as Territorials in their parks been altered yet?