HC Deb 22 April 1943 vol 388 cc1804-5
20. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Secretary of State for India why is it necessary, when advertising for two assistant masters who are to teach geo- graphy and history at an Indian military college, to emphasise that previous teaching experience is not essential but that candidates must be public school men?

Mr. Amery

The school in question is run on public school lines, and experience of public school life has consequently been regarded as a necessary qualification for masters.

Mr. Walkden

Is the Minister aware that an advertisement such as appeared in "The Times" quite recently does irreparable damage to us in countries like America and does not help in any way to promote good will and understanding with the peoples of India?

Mr. Amery

No. Sir; these schools are based on residence and on a certain amount of self-government by the boys themselves, and it is necessary that masters should be acquainted with the method of organisation.

Sir Herbert Williams

Will my right hon. Friend explain why half the Labour members of the Government wear the old school tie?

Mr. Sorensen

Can we take if that, generally speaking, for posts of this kind public school experience is a substitute for teaching experience?

Mr. Amery

No. Sir; certainly not.

Dr. Russell Thomas

Is not the Minister aware that many of us consider that in view of the rapid flux and iconoclasm of the times the qualification resented by the hon. Member for Doncaster (Mr. E. Walkden) in his Question is essential not only for the guidance of youth but also for the ruling of this great Realm and Empire?

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Will the Minister keep in mind the fact that the Labour members of the Government who have been to public schools do not advertise for public school propagandists?

Mr. Speaker

That is rather far away from the Question.