HC Deb 18 January 1945 vol 407 cc344-5
23. Sir A. Evans

asked the Minister of Education if he will give the names of the representatives on the Welsh National Advisory Council on Education of the 500 non-provided schools in the Principality who are responsible for over 45,000 scholars, including 14 church schools in Cardiff with 3,000 scholars; and if he is satisfied that the appointments already made are adequate.

Mr. Butler

The members of the Central Advisory Council for Wales were deliberately not selected on a representative basis, but there are members of that Council who are fully competent to consider any matters relating to the denominational schools which might properly be brought to the notice of the Council. The appointments have been made with a view to securing that as wide a number of interests as possible can make their contribution.

Sir A. Evans

In view of the spirit of the discussions on the Education Bill when it was before the House, that non-provided schools would receive adequate representation on such bodies, will not my right hon. Friend reconsider his decision, in view of the large number of children involved?

Mr. Butler

No, Sir, not at all. I am quite satisfied that all the interests concerned will have a chance of expressing their views on this Council, and I have evidence to that effect. I never intended that these Councils should be strictly representative in character, or strictly representative of denominational interests.

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