§ 7. Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether, in view of the importance of the plans for educational developments at the present juncture, he will introduce legislation to the effect that meetings of all education committees of local councils should be statutorily open to the Press and public whether they are, in fact, education authorities within the meaning of the Act or not.
§ Mr. DeedesNo, Sir. My right hon. Friend is not satisfied, on the information before him, that there is a sufficient case for altering the law in this field.
§ Dr. JohnsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that the education committee of the Carlisle City Council has recently decided to exclude the Press, thus breaking a precedent that has existed since the inception of that committee and adding to the number which conduct their affairs in secret at this important time?
§ Mr. DeedesIf my hon. Friend will send me the details, I will look into the matter but, broadly speaking, the local authorities are not behaving unreasonably over this. It is a very controversial question.