HC Deb 04 November 1943 vol 393 cc860-1
61. Mr. Parker

asked the President of the Board of Education when he expects to introduce his Education Bill?

Mr. Butler

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for East Birkenhead (Mr. Graham White) on 23rd September, a copy of which I am sending him.

Viscountess Astor

Is not that answer most discouraging? We are all waiting for a definite answer; when shall we get it?

Mr. Butler

I do not think the answer could be more encouraging at present.

64. Sir John Mellor

asked the President of the Board of Education the terms and purpose of his message to the Special National Assembly of the National Union of Teachers, held on 30th October, to inaugurate a public campaign concerning the next Education Bill?

Mr. Butler

Certainly, Sir. The terms of the message which I am circulating in the OFFICIAL REPORT make its purpose quite clear.

Sir J. Mellor

Will the right hon. Gentleman give equal encouragement to the religious denominations and to the Part III authorities to put their views before the public?

Mr. Butler

They do not seem to have needed any encouragement.

Sir J. Mellor

Did the National Union of Teachers?

Viscountess Astor

Is it not true—

Mr. Speaker

rose—

Following is the Message referred to: I am happy to send a message to this National Assembly of teachers from all parts of the country. Of the strength of the support for the Government's outline plans for Educational Reconstruction there can be no doubt. Ever since I spoke to your Annual Conference in April of last year we have been gathering momentum, and the time is now approaching when our ideas must be carried to their logical conclusion. I welcome this campaign of yours to bring home to the general public the urgency of educational reform. You will show that the teaching profession are alive to their responsibilities and to their opportunities. We should all endeavour, through our public activities, to extend the measure of participation in this great scheme of reform. We should seek to widen the area of understanding and co-operation. I have no doubt that this is the spirit in which you are setting out on your fresh initiative. I am confident that your influence will be deeply felt. It is right that you should lead public opinion to realise that we must provide for a progressive and enlightened educational system if we hope to reap the full fruits of victory.