HC Deb 13 July 1950 vol 477 cc1534-5
34. Mr. Crouch

asked the Minister of Education what were his reasons for terminating the emergency training of teachers scheme for ex-members of the Regular Armed Forces; and in view of the fact that there are still many men in need of such grants, if he will reopen it.

Mr. Tomlinson

The emergency scheme for the training of teachers was not designed specifically for ex-members of the Regular Armed Forces, but was part of the general arrangements for resettlement of men and women who had been engaged in some form of National Service during the war. It is now necessary to establish the arrangements for the recruitment and training of teachers on a permanent footing.

Mr. Crouch

Is the Minister satisfied that it is fair that ex-members of the Regular Forces should be prevented from getting justice when they are most anxious to enter the teaching profession?

Mr. Tomlinson

To the extent that it is possible to take into consideration the question which the hon. Member has raised, I will certainly consider what can be done to meet the needs of the more mature candidates, including, if necessary, ex-members of the Regular Armed Forces, when framing future arrangements for teachers.