HC Deb 12 June 1952 vol 502 cc399-400
45. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Education what steps she is taking to ensure that swimming is taught to children in school hours and by persons properly qualified to teach this art, in view of the harm done to children by unqualified teachers of swimming.

Miss Horsbrugh

I am satisfied that in general local education authorities and other school authorities make good use of existing facilities for teaching swimming to school children in school hours. It is for those authorities to decide by whom instruction is given and I have no evidence to suggest that any guidance on this matter is called for from my Department.

Mr. Hughes

Does the Minister realise that she is not addressing her mind to the Question on the Order Paper? Further, does she realise that in acting as she does in this matter she is ruining the careers of scores of qualified teachers of swimming as well as harming children by implanting in their minds the fear of water?

Miss Horsbrugh

I do not feel that I can be accused of implanting the fear of water in young children, as the hon. and learned Gentleman suggested. The Minister has no power to interfere in the curriculum which is laid down by the local authority.

Mr. Lindgren

Is not the right hon. Lady aware that there are local education authorities, to which I have drawn her attention, which have reduced education estimates by cutting the cost of swimming instruction? Does she not think that this is extremely unfair to children, all of whom ought to have the opportunity to learn, and that it would be beneficial from the national point of view if they had the opportunity?

Miss Horsbrugh

I should rather leave to the local authorities certain responsibilities which have been given to them to decide the curriculum.