HC Deb 23 October 1956 vol 558 cc473-4
34. Mr. Mikardo

asked the Minister of Labour what action he has taken in connection with the recommendation of the Advisory Council on Scientific Policy concerning the deferment of National Service for science graduates.

The Minister of Labour and National Service (Mr. Iain Macleod)

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the Council's recommendation in its Eighth Annual Report that science graduates who take up school teaching should have their National Service deferred. Since the beginning of this year graduates with first or second class honours in mathematics or science who teach in a secondary school, in which advanced or senior secondary courses are provided, have been granted indefinite deferment of National Service.

Mr. Mikardo

Whilst thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that information, may I ask whether he ought not to consider the extension of this arrangement to science graduates engaged on research as well as those engaged on certain types of teaching?

Mr. Macleod

This is a useful beginning and, under this arrangement, 200 have been deferred this year. It is quite true, as the hon. Member indicates, that there are a number of linked proposals, some of which are in front of me now.

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