HC Deb 31 May 1956 vol 553 cc435-6
38. Sir F. Medlicott

asked the Minister of Education if he is satisfied with the present arrangements under which private persons are able to own or conduct private schools; and if he will consider taking steps to strengthen such arrangements so as to prevent schools being opened by or passing into the hands of people unsuitable to have the care of children and young people.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education (Mr. Dennis Vosper)

As my right hon. Friend announced last December, Part III of the Education Act, 1944, will be brought into operation in September, 1957. This will help to achieve the object my hon. Friend has in mind, and, in the meantime, I am satisfied that the current arrangements are the best that can be devised.

Sir F. Medlicott

Is my hon. Friend aware of the recent case in which an undischarged bankrupt and ex-convict was convicted of running a private school on a completely fraudulent basis, involving frequent moves of the entire school to avoid creditors? Does not that indicate the desirability of close supervision in the interests of parents and children?

Mr. Vosper

I am aware of that case, and I think that my hon. Friend may be satisfied that the measures to which I have referred will prevent that particular gentleman from being a trouble to the education authorities again and will provide a safeguard in future cases.

Mr. M. Stewart

Will the hon. Gentleman ask his right hon. Friend to look again at the suggested draft Regulations for the registration of private schools? Is it not the case that the draft as at present suggested would not enable his right hon. Friend to get any information as to the moral suitability or unsuitability of persons to practise as teachers?

Mr. Vosper

As the hon. Member has stated, they are draft Regulations, but I will bear in mind what he has said.