HC Deb 24 April 1963 vol 676 cc211-2
25. Mr. Hannan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that children attending school beyond the statutory age limit are eligible for bursaries, whereas children attending special schools to the age of 16 years are not so eligible; and if he will now seek to amend Section 32(4) of the Education (Scotland) Act so as to rectify this anomaly.

Mr. Noble

I appreciate that older children attending special schools are not eligible for higher school bursaries, and this question will be looked at when there is a suitable opportunity for amending legislation.

Mr. Hannan

If the Government have difficulty in finding time for this, may I have the assurance of the Secretary of State that he will facilitate a Private Member's Bill to end an injustice which has gone on for perhaps too long?

Mr. Noble

The problem is that this would have to be dealt with on a United Kingdom basis and not on a Scottish basis. [HON. MEMBERS: "Why? "] Because the problem is exactly the same in both countries. I think it would be resented and would be unfair to England if we legislated on a separate basis.

Mr. Millan

Why can we not deal with this in the Scottish Education Bill which is at present going through this House? Could we not insert something in that Bill?

Mr. Noble

We cannot do that for the reason I have stated. This is exactly the same problem in both countries and the law is exactly the same in both countries. It would be unfair if we were to legislate only for Scotland.

Mr. Hannan

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.