HC Deb 12 June 1952 vol 502 cc395-6
39. Mr. Morley

asked the Minister of Education if she will set up a committee to ascertain the reasons why so large a proportion of grammar school pupils leave before the age of 18 years; and to suggest means of encouraging grammer school pupils to stay longer at school.

The Minister of Education (Miss Florence Horsbrugh)

I am aware of the importance of this problem and I am at present considering it, but I do not think that the setting up of a special committee would be appropriate.

Mr. Morley

Is the right hon. Lady aware that, in 1950–51, 1,448 grammar school children left at the age of 14; 18,428 left at the age of 15 and 41,600 left at the age of 16, and that over 50 per cent. of grammar school children left at the age of 16 or previously? In view of the importance of this problem what suggestions has she to offer, and what does she propose to do to induce grammar school children to stay longer at school?

Miss Horsbrugh

The hon. Gentleman has given me a good many figures, so that I do not need to discuss them with him further. I shall do all I can. I have already said that I am considering it.