HC Deb 28 January 1943 vol 386 cc609-10
51. Mr. Sorensen

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is now in a position to indicate when his education proposals are likely to be announced; and whether these will be of a sectional or comprehensive character?

Mr. Butler

As I stated in reply to a Question by the hon. Member on 17th December last, I will make an announcement on this subject as soon as I am in a position to do so. The time which it is necessary to devote to the formulation of my proposals is a measure of their comprehensiveness.

Mr. Sorensen

When is the right hon. Gentleman likely to be in a position to make this announcement?

Mr. Butler

I would rather not give a definite date.

Sir P. Harris

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman proposes to introduce the Bill this Session or to postpone it indefinitely?

Mr. Butler

That is a matter for the Government to decide.

Mr. Sorensen

Will it be sectional or comprehensive?

Mr. Butler

I said that the time taken to frame these proposals indicates the nature of their comprehensiveness. They are comprehensive and not sectional.

Mr. Stephen

Can we have an assurance that they will be introduced during this century?

Mr. Butler

I hope so.