HC Deb 04 August 1942 vol 382 cc839-40
31. Mr. Sloan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what percentage of children, leaving school at 14 years of age, secured the day-school certificate, lower, during the years 1940 and 1941?

Mr. Johnston

The Day Schools (Scotland) Code, 1939, which has been in-operation since 1st September, 1939, makes no provision for the award of a lower day-school certificate. Instead of these certificates which were formerly awarded, education authorities may now issue a statement indicating the particular stage of advancement the pupil has reached.

Mr. Sloan

Is the Minister aware children of 14 are leaving school without any tangible evidence that they have received an adequate education, and employers are very chary about engaging them? Will he look into this matter?

Mr. Johnston

Inquiries are being made now as to how far these statements which local education authorities may issue are being awarded.

Mr. Sloan

Is the Minister aware that not 10 per cent. of the children leaving school attain the day-school certificate standard?

Mr. Johnston

I do not think that the figure which my hon. Friend quotes is very far out.