HC Deb 29 January 1953 vol 510 cc1166-7
7. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Minister of Education what advice she is giving to the local education authority regarding the communication which has been sent to the heads of all schools in Buckingham from the social committee of the Conservative Association asking them to make known among the children particulars of a free tea party to be given by the Association and inviting their cooperation in advising the Association of the number of children who wish to attend.

Miss Horsbrugh

The local education authority have already made it quite clear to the committee that the school organisation should not be used in any way to promote the activities of any political party.

Mr. Brockway

I appreciate the action of the Buckinghamshire Education Authority, but can the right hon. Lady publicly state that, nationally, she also adopts the principle that schools must not be used by political parties for such purposes?

Miss Horsbrugh

Yes, certainly. I think this was a case of somebody doing something stupid. A party has been held every year and advertised in the Press. but the idea of bringing it more to the notice of the children was, I think we all agree, a stupid action.