HC Deb 11 February 1948 vol 447 cc347-9
4. Mr. Kenneth Lindsay

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what special steps he is taking to make known to parents and headmasters of boys in secondary schools that application forms for the Dartmouth College examination must be completed within a month from the time of circulating the Administrative Memorandum which gives the new arrangements for admission.

Mr. Dugdale

I presume the hon. Member is referring to the first examination for the new entry to Dartmouth at the age of 16, which is to be held in March. The regulations for this entry have been widely distributed to local education authorities and schools by the Ministry of Education, the Scottish Education Department and the Ministry of Education of Northern Ireland. The latest dates for receipt of applications are given in paragraph 17 of these regulations. A printed slip has also been attached to all copies of the regulations sent out, drawing special attention to the fact that completed application forms for the March examination must reach the Admiralty by 23rd February. As an additional measure the Admiralty has inserted a notice in the national and educational Press.

Mr. Lindsay

Does my hon. Friend realise that the time is very short, and also that the whole success of this scheme depends upon making these opportunities known in individual schools and will he do his best to see that that is done? Further, in view of the fact that science and mathematics are two of the compulsory subjects, will he bring to the attention of the Ministry of Education the chronic shortage of science and mathematics masters in the secondary schools of the country?

Mr. Dugdale

With regard to the last part of the question, that seems hardly to be a point for me. In reference to the earlier part, I think that this Question will give adequate publicity, which, I agree, is necessary. I fully realise the importance of this matter.

Mr. Lipson

Can the hon. Gentleman say when the regulations were sent to the schools and whether he is satisfied that there is adequate time for the preparation of candidates? Would not he agree that it would have been better to extend the date of the examination until May, which would still give time for admission in September?

Mr. Dugdale

It would have been very difficult to have had a special extension until May. The regulations were sent to the Press on 9th and 10th February. I have not got the exact date when they were sent to schools.

Commander Maitland

Would it not have been better in a step of this size and nature to have ensured that more time was allowed for consideration by the parents of the boys concerned; and why has not this been put on one side until the House has had an opportunity of debating the matter properly?

Mr. Dugdale

I do not think that the House felt that it should be put on one side. I think that hon. Members felt that this should be introduced as soon as possible, and that has been done.

Mr. Rankin

In order to ensure the success of this scheme, would my hon. Friend consider establishing a college for Scottish boys either on the Clyde or the Forth?

Mr. Dugdale

That is another question.