HC Deb 07 April 1949 vol 463 cc2198-9
36. Mr. Julius Silverman

asked the Minister of Education why prospective entrants into the teaching profession are expected to pay the costs of their medical examination.

Mr. Tomlinson

I do not think it unreasonable that a person who wishes to be admitted to the teaching profession should be expected to provide the necessary evidence of his fitness for it.

Mr. Silverman

Is it not usual for the employer to meet the cost of an examination to ensure than an employee is fit for his employment? Why is an exception made in the case of the Ministry of Education?

Mr. Tomlinson

If a student is examined at the end of his training college course, no fee is charged. This is an examination before he is accepted as a candidate for the profession.

Mr. Wilson Harris

When there is anxiety to secure teachers, is it not reasonable that the people who are anxious to secure them should pay for the medical examination?

Mr. Tomlinson

I will consider that suggestion, but I have not seen the necessity for adopting it as yet.