HC Deb 07 March 1966 vol 725 c1720
70. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many teaching machines his Department will be purchasing in the financial year 1966–67; and whether he will issue a circular to local education authorities recommending the use of teaching machines while there is a shortage of teachers.

The Minister of State, Department of Education and Science (Mr. Edward Redhead)

I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 3rd March.

Mr. Cooke

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that if his Department is to order only 19 teaching machines, the same as this year, that is a disgracefully small number? Does he realise that millions of electors who voted at the last General Election for a dynamic technological age will be grievously disappointed?

Mr. Redhead

The hon. Gentleman must not overlook the fact that not only my Department but local authorities buy these machines.