HC Deb 22 November 1951 vol 494 cc548-9
24. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Education if she is aware of the high price of history books; and what steps she is taking to ensure that pupils in secondary schools may get books recommended for study at a reasonable price.

Miss Horsbrugh

I am aware of the rise in the cost of books and I hope that local education authorities, who are responsible for the supply of books, will find means of ensuring that the essential needs of the schools are met.

Mr. Hughes

Is the right hon. Lady aware that there is an opinion in the country that the price of history books is scandalously high and that there is gross profiteering in this industry? I have here a history book published at 25s. If I give her the name of the author and the publisher, will she submit it to the Monopolies Commission?

Miss Horsbrugh

Perhaps it would be better if the hon. Gentleman himself took any steps that he thinks wise on the subject of the price of books. I thought he was perhaps going to present the book to me.

Lord John Hope

is my right hon. Friend aware that she will be doing a great service to the community if she gives the hon. Gentleman the book free of charge?

Mr. John Hynd

Is the Minister not aware that this applies not only to history books but to practically all the equipment which the schools have to provide, and that it is largely due to Purchase Tax? Will she make representations to her colleagues for a reduction for schools?

Miss Horsbrugh

I have already pointed out that this is a matter for the local education authority. The decision as to which books are obtained is not made by the Ministry. I have already said that I agree that the high and rising cost of books is something which must have very careful attention.

Mr. F. J. Erroll

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the restrictive practices of compositors and other employees in the printing trade contribute very largely to this price?

Mr. Hughes

Is the right hon. Lady aware that the book I have offered, for a consideration, was written by the Prime Minister?

Miss Horsbrugh

Then I think it was certainly worth any price asked.

Mr. Hughes

In view of the obviously unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.