§ 20. Mr. John Hallasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science to what extent he estimates that, as a result of the decision to raise the school leaving age in 1970, it will be necessary to increase the percentage of the gross national product applied to education.
§ Mr. CroslandBy about 0.1 per cent. in 1970–71.
§ Mr. HallIs the Minister aware that that Answer is slightly different to the one he gave some time ago to a rather similar question? But bearing in mind the increased realism shown by this, is he satisfied that the increase will be adequate?
§ Mr. CroslandI am not aware that the Answer differs from any previous Answer I have given on this subject. I think that this increase will prove adequate.
§ 21. Mr. John Hallasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied that by 1970 there will be sufficient school accommodation and sufficient teachers properly qualified to teach pupils in the upper forms staying on for the additional year when the school leaving age is raised to 16 years.
§ Mr. CroslandYes, Sir.
§ Mr. HallIs the Minister aware that many members of the teaching profession believe that the accomodation available will be quite inadequate and that the number of teachers who have been properly trained to deal with the extra year's curriculum will also be inadequate to cope with the problem? Will he consult the teachers' organisations concerned?
§ Mr. CroslandThis is a matter which I have more than once discussed with all the main teachers' organisations. I think that I am familiar with their views. They have natural apprehensions on the subject, but I am satisfied that the amount we have made available for building—well over £100 million—in addition to our teacher supply programme will provide the necessary facilities.