§ 36. Mr. Remnantasked the Minister of Education whether she will now make a statement on the Report of the National Advisory Council on the Training and Supply of Teachers, with particular reference to graduate teachers of mathematics and science.
§ Miss HorsbrughThe Report draws attention to a complex problem which 1194 involves all who are concerned with the education and with the employment of these graduates. I accept its broad conclusions and I am consulting the other interests principally concerned to see how the needs of the schools for a better supply of these teachers can best be met. I shall also be asking the local education authorities to ensure that the most effective use is made of the graduate teachers of science and mathematics available to them now and in the future.
§ Mr. RemnantAs this matter is one of immediate importance, especially to the teachers themselves, can my right hon. Friend say when she will be able to give her decision?
§ Miss HorsbrughThe hon. Gentleman will probably have noticed that we have already had a conference, initiated by the Federation of British Industries, which was attended by representatives of industry and of education. I assure the hon. Member that discussions are continuing.
§ 46. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Education whether she has yet decided what action to take to increase the number of science teachers, in view of their shortage in grammar schools.
§ Miss HorsbrughI would refer the hon. Member to the answer I have just given to my hon. Friend the Member for Wokingham (Mr. Remnant).
§ Mr. JannerHas the right hon. Lady taken into consideration the fact that in lower classes in grammar schools there are teachers with special scientific qualifications who might very well be used to teach science? Will she pay particular attention to this aspect?
§ Miss HorsbrughYes, Sir. As I have already said, I am asking local authorities to ensure that they are making adequate use of the science teachers in their schools.