§ 5. Mr. Frederick Peartasked the Minister of Education if she is aware that the Middlesex County Council has imposed, and is continuing to impose, political tests for teachers desiring promotion; that this is contrary to the declared policy of the National Union of Teachers and other teachers' organisations; and what action she proposes to take to prevent political discrimination in the teaching profession.
§ Miss HorsbrughLocal education authorities and other responsible bodies have a statutory discretion in regard to the appointment of teachers. While I deprecate the Middlesex authority's decision to take account of the political views of applicants for teaching posts, I do not consider that circumstances have so far arisen which would justify my intervention.
§ Mr. PeartIs the Minister aware that, while she has given a very favourable reply, it is repugnant to impose political conditions on promotion in schools, and will she reconsider the matter, and, if necessary, issue a directive to the authority?
§ Miss HorsbrughI have made it quite clear that I deprecate the position of the Middlesex authority on this account, and I think it would be better to leave it there as it makes my position absolutely clear.
§ Mr. PeartIf the Middlesex authority still refuses to alter its decision despite what has been said by the Minister, will she reconsider her action?
§ Miss HorsbrughI certainly will not be drawn into answering hypothetical questions.