§ 13. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Minister of Labour how many teachers were called up for National Service in Scotland in 1955.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI regret that this information is not available, but the number is likely to be very small as it is the general practice for a man to do his National Service, if fit, before undertaking work as a teacher.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that, however small the number may be, 548 it is very important in relation to the shortage of teachers in Scotland, which is very serious? If there are very important reasons for exempting coal miners and allowing them to do their National Service in the mines and for allowing agricultural workers to do their National Service on the land, will not the Minister consider allowing teachers to do their National Service in the schools?
§ Mr. MacleodI am afraid I could not accept that. When I said that the number was very small I meant that there were practically none. I have heard of no cases at all, and if the hon. Member knows of any perhaps he will bring them to my notice.