HC Deb 14 November 1957 vol 577 cc1126-7
25. Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in which of the Colonial and Trust Territories there are inter-racial primary schools; in which there are inter-racial secondary schools; and to what extent it is his policy to establish inter-racial education in these territories.

Mr. Profumo

There are primary and secondary schools open to children of all races in a majority of Colonial and Trust Territories; and it is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to encourage this arrangement wherever possible. Where, however, linguistic, religious or cultural differences between groups within the population are so great that it is necessary to provide separate schools for the different groups, this provision continues to be made.

Mr. MacPherson

While one understands the difficulties to which the hon. Gentleman has referred, will he make sure that this principle of inter-racial education is pursued vigorously? Is he aware that in one or two cases the Government have lagged behind the proprietors of voluntary schools in this matter?

Mr. Profumo

I think I have indicated what is the view of Her Majesty's Government, and I hope the hon. Gentleman will accept that.