§ 8. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland why, in view of the unemployment situation in Scotland and of the importance of education, he has authorised education authorities to exempt school children for Christmas work in the Post Office before the end of the school term.
§ Mr. MaclayThe assistance of school pupils for Christmas work during the last few days of term is sought only where no adult labour is available, and only pupils of 16 and over may be so employed. Each education authority is free to decide whether individual schools may be approached for this purpose, and it has been emphasised that normal school work should not be curtailed.
§ Mr. ThomsonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the boys and girls over 16 who will have an opportunity of doing this work may in many cases be pupils preparing for the higher certificate, and that in other cases they will be pupils who have recently been exempted from school for purposes of potato picking? Is it not disgraceful that the Secretary of State should continue to get out of his difficulties by employing child labour?
§ Mr. MaclayThe Christmas postal rush is not one of my difficulties. I do not think I have responsibilities for the Christmas rush. I feel it is right that each local authority should be able to make its own decision in these matters.
§ Mr. ThomsonIn view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.