§ 21. Mr. Hamlingasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations have been made to him by the National Association of Schoolmasters on setting up a Royal Corn-mission; and what reply he has sent.
§ Mr. CroslandI have received no representations from the National Association of Schoolmasters, and the question of a reply has therefore not arisen.
§ Mr. HamlingIs my right hon. Friend aware that contradictory statements have been made by the N.A.S. about the purpose of the strike, including such things as obtaining unequal pay? Would not 586 the Minister agree that the setting up of a Royal Commission might delay the effective steps he has already taken?
§ Mr. CroslandI find the strike extremely mystifying. The N.A.S. says that it is not against the Birmingham authority. On the other hand, it could hardly be a strike directed against the Government because the Association has never bothered to make any approach to the Government. As I said before, only the children of Birmingham will suffer, and no one will gain.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeIs it not time for plain speaking on this matter? In terms of schools and children is not this strike irresponsible in the extreme?