HC Deb 08 March 1956 vol 549 cc2280-1
3. Mr. Moss

asked the Minister of Education what progress has been made and what progress he anticipates will be made in improving the teacher-supply position in Midland areas, which is suffering from an inadequate supply of teachers.

Sir D. Eccles

Although the authorities concerned are employing more teachers than a year ago, the numbers are not enough to match their increased needs. It is not possible to forecast recruitment this year, but I have invited those authorities which anticipate special difficulties to come and discuss their problems with me.

Mr. Moss

Has the right hon. Gentleman received recommendations to take any special measures, or has he considered taking any special measures to increase the supply of teachers in these areas?

Sir D. Eccles

No special measures are being considered at the moment. I think it is better to talk to the local authorities whose concern it is, and perhaps between us we can find something worth doing.

Mr. Shimmer

Is the Minister aware that the City of Birmingham is short of 600 teachers, and that this number is increasing? Is he further aware that, owing to the high cost of living accommodation in that city, unless he accepts the recommendation of the teachers' association to make some territorial allowance, the situation will be such that it will be necessary to have shifts for children in schools in Birmingham instead of their having a full day's education?

Sir D. Eccles

The recommendation of a territorial allowance does not come to me from the Teachers' Association. It must come from the Burnham Committee and so far that committee has not recommended such an allowance.