HC Deb 25 June 1959 vol 607 c1381
26. Mr. M. Stewart

asked the Minister of Education to what extent his action in commenting on proposals made in the Burnham Committee, before they were officially submitted to him, is in accordance with precedent; and how far it indicates a new approach by the Government to the question of teachers' salaries.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

In 1944, when the Committee had failed to agree, my right hon. Friend, the Lord Privy Seal, who was then Minister of Education, tried to help the Committee by indicating the sort of proposals which he would be able to approve.

Mr. Stewart

Was it the case in this instance that the Committee had failed to agree? Is it not the position now that it has managed to agree on something which the Minister has said he will not approve? Is there any precedent for that?

Mr. Lloyd

At that time the Committee had not reached agreement and asked me for advice.