HC Deb 31 May 1951 vol 488 cc377-8
6. Brigadier Smyth

asked the Minister of Education whether, in view of the shortage of paper and the shortage of teachers, he will take urgent steps to reduce the number of forms which have to be filled in by headmasters and headmistresses of Government-controlled schools so that the latter may be enabled to give more time to the task of education.

Mr. Tomlinson

No, Sir. This matter has recently been under careful review and I am satisfied that the requirements of my Department do not go beyond what is essential. The question of forms required by local education authorities has also been reviewed in connection with the discussions of the Local Government Manpower Committee.

Brigadier Smyth

Would not the Minister agree there is considerable concern in the teaching profession today at the amount of time that is taken up in duties not strictly connected with teaching? I have been through all these forms at various schools and it seems to me many of them are unnecessary, except to give employment to officials in Government Departments. Would the Minister therefore use his best endeavours, in the interest of economy and education, to do away with some of these forms?

Mr. Tomlinson

No, Sir. I have also gone through these forms and I have come to the conclusion that our requirements are absolutely essential. Some of the forms are used for answering Questions in the House.

Dr. King

Would my right hon. Friend resist the implication in this Question that headmasters and headmistresses should cut down administrative duties so that they should engage in more class teaching?

Brigadier Smyth

Does the Minister realise that there are forms which show great lack of trust and confidence in people in high positions in the teaching profession? Does he not agree that it is ridiculous that a headmistress should have to certify that she has given leave to one of her staff to go to the funeral of a relative and that she has to give the name of the deceased relative and the date of the funeral?

Mr. Tomlinson

I can assure the hon. and gallant Member that some of the things which he has now suggested as not being necessary would be very soon pointed out to be necessary, if we let up on them.