§ 9. Mr. Sorensenasked the President of the Board of Education whether it is competent for any public educational committee, directly or indirectly, to inquire as to the religious convictions of applicants for teaching vacancies in their schools; how many complaints in respect of this have been brought to his notice; and whether the qualifications of efficiency and character will remain the only tests that will be applied to such applicants?
§ The President of the Board of Education (Mr. Butler)There is no statutory provision limiting the scope of questions which may be asked of a person seeking 1757 employment in a school provided by a local education authority. As a matter of practice no religious test or inquiry into the religious opinions or practices of such a candidate is made and the question of his adherence to a religious denomination is not raised. This is established by the fact that the last complaint in this respect of which my Department has a note occurred twelve years ago. I have at present nothing further to add.
§ Mr. SorensenWhile appreciating that answer, may I ask the Minister whether he would consider a particular case if sent it on to him?
§ Mr. ButlerCertainly.