HC Deb 28 April 1955 vol 540 c1051
17. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Education what decisions have been reached in the consideration given to the recommendation of the Central Advisory Council for England in respect of early leaving at grammar schools; and what action is to be taken to increase maintenance allowances.

Sir D. Eccles

I cannot add to what I said in Tuesday's debate.

Mr. Dodds

In respect of what he said in Tuesday's debate, will the Minister state what action he is taking to bring to the attention of grammar school children and their parents the advantages now to be gained by staying on longer at grammar schools for the education available?

Sir D. Eccles

On every opportunity I have tried to stress the importance of keeping children at grammar schools—and secondary modern schools as well—to complete the longer period of education, if their parents will allow them.

Mr. Ede

Could the right hon. Gentleman say anything about the last part of the Question? What action is he taking to impress on local authorities the need for increasing maintenance grants for children beyond the compulsory minimum school-leaving age?

Sir D. Eccles

I have had a very interesting meeting with local authorities and teachers' representatives on the question of maintenance allowances. A number of very interesting but different views were expressed, and we are now considering whether we can come to a common view as to what should be the future of maintenance allowances.