HC Deb 01 February 1955 vol 536 cc881-2
19. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what will be the nature of the discussions he intends to have with educational representatives on the question of teachers' superannuation; and which organisations are to take part in such discussions.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

The discussions will be concerned with the preparation, in consultation with the local authorities and teachers, of a scheme designed to ensure a sound financial basis for teachers' pensions. The organisations invited to attend are the Association of County Councils, the Association of Counties of Cities and the Educational Institute of Scotland, together with corresponding associations in England and Wales.

Mr. Hamilton

That sounds very much like the statement we had before the last Bill was introduced. Can the Minister now give us a specific assurance that the teachers will not be called upon to increase their superannuation payments?

Mr. Stewart

No, Sir. It would be improper of me to give any assurance of that kind. The Government have stated the basis upon which these consultations are to take place. They have made it clear that the idea of consultation is to provide a sound financial basis for the future, and I think we had better leave these competent people to put their own case. I can assure the hon. Member that the Government will give a most sympathetic hearing to what they have to say.