HC Deb 22 July 1964 vol 699 cc470-1
26 and 27. Mr. Mackenzie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) how many men and women were admitted to training under the special recruitment scheme for teachers in 1964;

(2) how many people applied for information about the special recruitment scheme for teachers in 1963; and how many thereafter applied, were interviewed, and were accepted.

Lady Tweedsmuir

In 1963 over 5,000 people asked for information about the special recruitment scheme. Of these 1,539 applied, 1,518 were interviewed and 951 were accepted. In session 1963–64 500 men and 429 women were admitted to training or study under the scheme.

Mr. Mackenzie

Would not the hon. Lady agree that among the 5,000 people who originally applied we have a pool which would supplement the existing teacher force? Can she say from the survey which surely her Department has carried out why many people did not in the end apply? Does she agree that the low grant paid under the scheme is perhaps the principal barrier?

Lady Tweedsmuir

The reason for the difference between those who applied and those who asked for information cannot be accurately assessed. The scheme is well publicised and the grants are adequate. If the hon. Member would like it, I will send him the explanatory leaflet.

Mr. Mackenzie

I was told the grants which are payable in reply to a Question which I asked on 1st July. Is the noble Lady seriously suggesting that a grant of about £375 paid to a married man with two children is any encouragement to him to give up the job which he has already and enter the teaching profession?

Lady Tweedsmuir

A married man with two children and no income would get free tuition and a grant of about £10 a week. I do not think that that is unreasonable.