HC Deb 09 May 1957 vol 569 c1155
12. Mr. M. Stewart

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education what steps are taken by his Department to encourage the teaching of civics and economics in schools.

Sir E. Boyle

These subjects are widely taught in the upper forms of secondary schools of all kinds. My noble Friend approves of this practice, but it is not his policy to interfere with school curricula.

Mr. Stewart

Has the hon. Gentleman or his noble Friend considered that the teaching of economics in particular may be unduly influenced by the opinions of universities, and that, after all, the great majority of people do not go to universities?

Sir E, Boyle

I am not clear what the hon. Gentleman has in mind, but perhaps we can have a discussion about it afterwards.

Mr. Ede

Can the hon. Gentleman assure us that there is no orthodox system, as viewed by the Ministry of Education, for these two subjects?

Sir E. Boyle

I do not think the Ministry is tied to any particular economist, if that is what the right hon. Gentleman means.