§ 28. Mr. Rossasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what changes he is contemplating in teachers' contributions to the Teachers' Superannuation Scheme.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Henderson Stewart)I am sending the hon. Member a copy of a letter about proposed changes in the Scottish Teachers' Superannuation Scheme, which was sent last July to the associations of local authorities and teachers in Scotland.
§ Mr. RossAm I right in thinking that this means an increase in the teachers' contributions, which will virtually mean a cut in teachers' salaries, and is it wise at a time when the recruitment of teachers is causing concern to start such an action?
§ Mr. StewartAs no doubt the hon. Member knows, we are discussing this matter with the two associations. We have already discussed it with the E.I.S. We are looking forward to hearing from the local authority associations. The difficulty of the problem is fully understood.
§ Mr. RankinCan the Minister tell us what has been the reaction of the E.I.S. to the letter he sent them?
§ Mr. StewartThe E.I.S. were opposed to an increase.