HC Deb 28 September 1944 vol 403 cc400-1
28. Mrs. Cazalet Keir

asked the Minister of Education whether he is aware of the deep concern caused by the decision in the first circular issued by his Ministry informing local education authorities that they would not be required to submit schemes for the provision of further education; and whether he will reconsider this decision.

The Minister of Education (Mr. Butler)

I am glad to say that the evidence I have from local education authorities does not confirm my hon. Friend's apprehensions. It seems to have been generally understood that this circular emphasises the vital importance in the national interest of the further development of technical and adult education and invites authorities to put forward interim proposals for such development. It would have been both unwise and unpractical to ask authorities to submit their complete schemes of further education under Section 42 of the Act at this stage. Apart altogether from the other burdens which the Act lays upon authorities, it has to be remembered that the whole technical efficiency of our country will depend upon the adequacy and suitability of these far-reaching schemes. They will need to be prepared not only in full consultation with representatives of industry but also with a knowledge of the post-war location of various industries. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Mrs. Cazalet Keir

In view of the large numbers of young men and women who will shortly be demobilised, does not my right hon. Friend think that it is vital and urgent that local authorities should have definite plans for further education at the earliest possible moment?

Viscountess Astor

Is it not true that some local authorities are very much disturbed by this circular, particularly progressive ones; and is my right hon. Friend to give the non-progressive ones a chance to go to sleep?

Mr. Woodburn

In view of the difficulty of finding material and labour for further education, is the right hon. Gentleman taking any steps to improve the quality of existing education?

Mr. Butler

The answer to all these questions is in the affirmative. It is not my desire to see local authorities go to sleep nor is it my intention that they should do so. It is the intention that interim schemes shall be put into operation as soon as possible.

Viscountess Astor

Is it not true that some local authorities are very much disturbed by this circular? My right hon. Friend said that authorities were not concerned but I assure him that it is so.