HC Deb 15 December 1954 vol 535 cc1754-5
6. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the present position in respect of a proposed increase in fees for secondary schools in Malaya; and what arrangements are proposed to assist poor parents who cannot afford the proposed increase.

Mr. Hopkinson

I have nothing to add to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave on 20th October to the hon. Member for Eccles (Mr. Proctor).

Mr. Sorensen

Does not the Minister feel that that is a pity, in view of the fact that it is most necessary to try and promote secondary education rather than to frustrate it? Does he not think that these increased fees are bound to frustrate rather than to help, and, in the circumstances, would he not consider the subject afresh in the light of the great need to promote secondary education?

Mr. Hopkinson

This recommendation was made by a Committee consisting of the Member for Education, Dato Thuraisingham, who was the Chairman, and nine others, including four Malays, three Chinese, an Indian, a Ceylonese, and a European. That Committee made recommendations, which have been noted by the Federation Government and referred for study to the Governments of the States and Settlements, which are responsible in these matters.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the Minister appreciate that, in spite of what he has said, there is very great criticism of this recommendation? Does he not think that this country should give a lead in this very important matter?

Mr. Hopkinson

I am not expressing approval or disapproval. All I say is that, at this stage, we are not in a position to interfere.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The Minister says that this matter was dealt with in a previous Question. As so much of the revenue of Malaya is partly dependent on export prices of rubber, which have fallen considerably in recent years, is he satisfied that alternative sources of revenue are available for these social and economic plans?

Mr. Hopkinson

That is rather a different Question. If the right hon. Gentleman would arrange for a Question to be put down I should be glad to give an answer.