§ 27. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Minister of Education if he will give an estimate of the number of VIth Form girls at secondary schools who have not yet been accepted at training colleges in England and Wales; and what steps he is taking to reduce this number as early as possible.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydI cannot give such an estimate but I have just announced that more training college places will be available this autumn.
§ Mr. JohnsonIs the Minister aware that he never gives me a factual answer? Is he aware that there is still much anxiety among parents and teachers about this matter? Has he thought any more about the answer which he gave me some months ago about the Government being a clearing house in this matter, since there is a need for much more invigilation by his Department in this matter of placing young ladies in these teaching colleges?
§ Mr. LloydThe fact that there is a large number of applicants for the training colleges is a healthy sign in that it shows that there are many people who are ready to enter the profession. However, it does not necessarily follow that everybody who presents herself for admission to a college is necessarily suitable to be a teacher.
§ Mr. JohnsonWill the right hon. Gentleman consider making a public statement on this matter, because there is much anxiety in the schools and among parents on this subject?