HC Deb 16 December 1954 vol 535 cc1950-1
7. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Minister of Education which local authorities have been asked to continue classes of 11-year-olds in the primary schools in view of the imminent shortage of school places in their secondary schools.

Sir D. Eccles

None, Sir.

Mr. Johnson

Is the Minister aware that teachers, including myself, are most happy to hear him say this, because it was said during the reign of his predecessor that this was to apply particularly in the City of Manchester; we are glad to hear this disclaimer?

Sir D. Eccles

I understand that no letter was ever sent by my Department to Manchester. There appears to have been a misunderstanding.

Mr. Follick

Would the Minister not agree that it would be far better to keep the 11-year-olds in the primary schools rather than send them to secondary schools?

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