HC Deb 11 April 1946 vol 421 cc2065-6
6. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Education whether the sub-committee appointed to deal with applications for inclusion in the London area for the purpose of additional payments under the Burnham Scale has yet met; and whether she has any statement to make as to progress made.

Miss Wilkinson

As I informed my hon. Friend the Member for Epping (Mrs. Manning) last Thursday, I understand that the Burnham Committee are about to appoint this sub-committee.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

In view of the fact that this matter has been outstanding for seven years, will the right hon. Lady take steps to ensure that it is not another seven years before this matter is settled?

Miss Wilkinson

The Burnham Committee was only appointed in 1945 so it could not have been before the Committee for seven years.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the right hon. Lady aware that the application was first of all submitted in 1939 to the predecessor of the Burnham Committee and that this is a most urgent matter?

Miss Wilkinson

I am afraid when we appoint an independent Committee to go into matters the Government have no power to order the date on which the Committee shall make their report.