§ 32. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Education what progress has been made in the consideration given to improving 551 the educational facilities for Service men's children.
§ Sir D. EcclesI have nothing to add to the reply I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Horncastle (Commander Maitland) and the hon. Member for Itchen (Dr. King) on 7th July.
§ Mr. DoddsDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate how unsatisfactory that is? Does he not recollect that on 21st October, 1954, he said that discussions were going well, and on a subsequent date he turned down the idea of having a committee to look into the question because he wanted to find a short cut? Is it not taking a long time to get a short-cut solution to this very important matter?
§ Sir D. EcclesI am bound to agree with the hon. Member. The fact is that a considerable number of Departments are engaged, and although my share of responsibility is quite evident, there are other Ministers concerned. Like the hon. Member, I wish we could come to some short-cut decision on the matter.
§ Mr. Ian HarveyIs my right hon. Friend aware that this matter is giving great concern to members of the Services and having an adverse effect on recruitment to the Regular Forces, which is most important at present? Will he do something to accelerate a decision?
§ Sir D. EcclesI will do my best. I realise as well as any hon. Member that frequent changes of school are very bad for children.
§ Mr. J. EdwardsWill the right hon. Gentleman say when he expects that progress will be made, so that he can tell us about it?
§ Sir D. EcclesIn view of previous answers last year, I do not think I had better give one now.