HC Deb 13 April 1943 vol 388 cc1056-7
59. Mr. Henderson Stewart

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in the course of the present review of the educational systems of England, Wales and Scotland, it is intended to inquire into the position of the universities and the educational services which they render; and what was the date and character of the last inquiry into university education?

Sir K. Wood

In planning the development of education after the war the question of access to the universities for students likely to profit by a university course is receiving attention. The universities will be closely associated with the plans for the further education of demobilised persons announced by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service on 25th March. It is not, however, proposed that there should be any formal inquiry, such as a Royal Commission, into the universities. The last Royal Commission on university affairs was that of 1935 on the University of Durham.

Mr. Stewart

Has my right hon. Friend considered that it would be quite impossible to consider the training of teachers, which is a vital part of educational policy, without examining the position in the universities? Is it possible to consider education generally without examining the university side of it? In view of the unsatisfactory nature of my right hon. Friend's reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.