Education

HC Deb 14 December 1955 vol 547 cc1190-1

35. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secreretary of State for the Colonies to what extent the history of the British Empire is taught in secondary schools in Cyprus.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The history of the British Empire is taught as a specific subject only in the English School in Nicosia, as preparation for the General Education Certificate of London University. In other secondary schools it forms part of general history teaching.

Mr. Hughes

Could the Minister explain why if the British Empire has been so well taught so many students seem to be causing trouble in Cyprus? Is he aware that there appears to be some misconception that in the history of the British Empire many nations have struggled for independence and that some of them regard George Washington as a terrorist?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I think the hon. Member could not really have heard my Answer, or he made up his supplementary question before he heard my Answer. It may well be that some of the silliness and foolishness now going on among schoolboys is because they have been taught far too little about the history of the British Empire.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Cut the teachers' salaries?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

That has nothing to do with me.

47. Mrs. L. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the number of children deprived of education in Cyprus as a result of the closing of schools; and whether teachers are being paid while the schools are closed.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The number of pupils involved in closing of schools is 2,048, but they are free to apply for admission to other schools. The answer to the second part of the Question is, 64 "yes."

Mr. J. Griffiths

May I ask the Colonial Secretary whether he proposes to make a statement on the situation in Cyprus today, or will he undertake to make a statement before the House rises for the Christmas Recess?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I will consult on that. I had not intended to make a statement today.

Mr. Griffiths

But will the right hon. Gentleman make one before the House rises?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I will consult on that.