§ 54. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Education what progress has been made in his discussions with the various Departments concerned in devising a more satisfactory system of education for Service men's children.
§ 65. Mr. M. Stewartasked the Minister of Education whether he will introduce legislation to ensure that appropriate education, at boarding schools if necessary, is available in this country for the children of Regular members of the Armed Forces.
§ The Minister of Education (Sir David Eccles)I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Dartford (Mr. Dodds) on 10th March.
§ Mr. StewartDoes the right hon. Gentleman remember that he said that the obstacle to doing anything in this problem was that legislation would be necessary? Why, therefore, will he not introduce legislation?
§ Sir D. EcclesLegislation is a lengthy process and we hope to arrive at a solution by rather quicker methods.
§ Mr. DoddsWhilst appreciating that a real effort has been made to solve the problem, may I ask the Minister if he is aware of the disappointment that nothing has yet been said about the discussions that have taken place, and as this is harmful to recruitment for the Regular Army, could the Minister not be more forthcoming and give some hope for the future because, so far, he has said nothing?
§ Sir D. EcclesI am keenly aware of the situation. I can only ask the hon. Member to wait a few weeks longer.
§ Dr. KingWill the Minister include in his consideration the children of civilians engaged on foreign service, to whom the problem of education is a serious one?
§ Sir D. EcclesThat is one of the difficulties-the exact extent to which any grants might apply.