HC Deb 11 December 1947 vol 445 cc1173-4
27. Mr. Baker White

asked the Minister of Education the purpose and conditions of the family quiz, now being conducted in schools in Kent; and if he is satisfied that it does not entail any prying into the private affairs of the families of children taking part in it.

Mr. Tomlinson

I am informed that the Kent local education authority have made no arrangements for the conduct of a family quiz in their schools.

Mr. Baker White

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in schools in East Kent, of which I am prepared to give him the names, this quiz has been carried out? I have a copy of it, and it contains such questions as: Does your mother earn any money? How much does your father earn? Does your father bring any eggs, cheese, milk, butter, etc., home from his work? How much do your parents pay in rent? Have you enough, or not enough, or plenty of blankets? Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that to be a gross intrusion on the family?

Mr. Tomlinson

In one school under the Kent authority, that did take place. It was done by one teacher on her own initiative; she has been doing this for the last 15 years. Instructions have been given that it shall not be done again in the same form.

Mr. Baker White

Is the Minister further aware that since I put down this Question, I have received letters from Essex and Bedfordshire saying the same thing is going on there?

Mr. Tomlinson

If the hon. Member will let me have particulars, I will find an answer for those schools.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

May I, on behalf of Bedfordshire, repudiate the allegation which has been made?