HC Deb 06 November 1958 vol 594 cc1085-6
14. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Education approximately how many teachers are now in Her Majesty's Forces; and what steps he has taken to secure the immediate release of those teachers.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

I do not know the number, but it cannot be large.

Mr. Sorensen

Here again is another means by which immediately one could have a certain number of extra teachers. Under the present circumstances, is not it advisable that teachers in Her Majesty's Forces should be transferred immediately to their ordinary civilian occupation?

Mr. Lloyd

I am discussing with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour a further extension of the deferment arrangements for teachers.

Mr. M. Stewart

Is not it the case that a certain number of people, some of whom might be suitable teachers, are being squeezed out of the Armed Forces by Government policy; and has the right hon. Gentleman noticed that a body representing certain private schools in this country has held a conference to try to attract some of them into teaching? Is not it a pity that the right hon. Gentleman has not shown the same initiative?

Mr. Lloyd

No, Sir. I think that there are arrangements for watching this matter also on behalf of the State schools.