§ 40. Mr. Peter Millsasked the hon. and learned Member for Brigg as Second Church Estates Commissioner what plans the Church Commissioners have for extending Church of England secondary 921 education and primary school education; and if he will make a Statement.
§ Mr. E. L. MallalieuThe extension of Church of England secondary and primary school education is a matter outside the Jurisdiction of the Church Commissioners.
§ 41. Mr. Peter Millsasked the hon. and learned Member for Brigg as Second Church Estates Commissioner, whether tae Church Commissioners will release large sums of money in view of local reorganisation projects for the furtherance of church schools, particularly secondary education.
§ Mr. E. L. MallalieuThe Church Commissioners are empowered by Measure of the Church Assembly to make payments from their general fund to the Central Board of Finance for the improvement or extension of Church of England schools. These payments must not exceed £1 million in total over a period of 25 years ending in 1983. Subject to this limitation and to the availability of money the Commissioners make payments when requested by the Central Board of Finance.
§ Mr. MillsIs it not time that the Church Commissioners showed a little more interest in education? If they really believe in Church education in primary and secondary schools, they should seek to allocate a far larger share of money for this work.
§ Mr. MallalieuThe Church Commissioners have to take an interest in those duties put upon them by Statute, and I think it is generally admitted that they show great interest in these subjects.