HC Deb 11 February 1960 vol 617 cc634-5
14. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Education what is the present shortage of physics masters in grammar and other State schools.

Sir D. Eccles

The figures given to the hon. Member on the 25th June, 1959, are the latest available, but there is some reason to think that the present position may be slightly better.

Mr. Sorensen

May I ask whether anything is being done respecting those who are still called up for National Service? Has any release been made of those who are qualified in physics to enable them to go back to fill some of these many vacancies?

Sir D. Eccles

In January last year the deferment arrangements for teachers were extended to cover all physics graduates. As a result of that measure, I hope that about 50 or 60 more graduates will have come forward.