HC Deb 29 November 1962 vol 668 cc642-3
16. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Education how many boys and girls aged between 15 and 18 years are attending day release courses; what proportion these are of the working population aged 15 to 18 years; and how these figures compare with the peak figure of enrolments in previous years.

Sir E. Boyle

In November, 1961, the latest date for which figures are available, 200,000 boys and 51,000 girls between the ages of 15 and 18 were attending day release courses. These figures represent 30.4 per cent. and 7.6 per cent. respectively of the numbers of insured persons estimated to be in those age groups in the preceding May.

During the preceding five years the corresponding percentages varied between 24 and 26 for boys, and between 6 and 7 for girls.

Mr. Boyden

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that, even though there is some improvement, the figures are still unsatisfactory? Does he accept the Crowther Committee's recommendation that there should be compulsory day release in certain selected areas within the next four or five years? If he does, will he consider trying this in areas where there is serious unemployment, and not in such a way as financially to penalise firms in the area?

Sir E. Boyle

I do not want to commit myself this afternoon on the question of principle that the hon. Member has raised. I welcome the improvement which has taken place, but I am sure that some sectors of industry and commerce could do more at present. In particular, the number of girls is disappointing. The percentage is not rising as much as it should. This is of particular importance.

Mr. Snow

Is the Minister aware that there is some reason to believe that the managements of some medium and small companies have not even heard of the procedure of day release? Could his Department take some steps to inform such companies?

Sir E. Boyle

The hon. Gentleman may have noticed that I have set up a Committee under the chairmanship of Mr. Henniker-Heaton, Director of the British Spinners and Doublers Association, to consider what steps should be taken to encourage the development of day release. The Committee has already had its first meeting.