§ 18. Mr. Boxasked the Minister of Education whether he is aware of widespread concern over the methods used in the appointment of teachers in Wales; and whether he will instruct the Central Advisory Council for Wales to investigate and report on the position.
§ Sir E. BoyleI have seen recent articles and letters in the Welsh Press about this matter but I have received no evidence. The Central Advisory Council for Edu- 574 cation (Wales) is not in any case an appropriate body to which matters of this kind could be referred.
§ Mr. BoxMay I assure my right hon. Friend that I will let him have copies of the correspondence which has recently been appearing in the columns of the Western Mail? Is he aware that they contain allegations of nepotism, favouritism and canvassing in connection with the appointments of teachers in Wales? Is he further aware that in some parts of Wales it now appears to be more important to be a member of the Labour Party, or a member of the Co-operative movement, rather than to have educational ability, to obtain such appointments?
§ Sir E. BoyleOf course I will consider any evidence which my hon. Friend puts to me but, with all respect to our friends in the Press, I am bound to say that few people would say that"think pieces", as they are sometimes called, either in the form of articles or letters, are necessarily precise evidence. But of course I will consider any points put to me.