HC Deb 27 June 1968 vol 767 c784
2. Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what letters he has received on the caning of handicapped children; and what replies he has sent.

The Secretary of State for Education and Science (Mr. Edward Short)

I have had 10 letters on this subject. In my replies I have corrected misunderstandings and made the following main points: that I am very much against the corporal punishment of handicapped children but believe that decisions must rest with teachers, in whom I have confidence; that I do not propose to make regulations on this subject; and that the Inspectorate tells me that corporal punishment in schools for such children is very little used now.

Mr. Winnick

Will the Secretary of State state whether the Association of Workers for Maladjusted Children has written to him expressing its disagreement with his views about his predecessor's policy? Will my right hon. Friend at least consider sending out a circular to local authorities disapproving of the cane being used on handicapped children?

Mr. Short

I am sure that through my hon. Friend's efforts every local authority will have read about my views on this matter. I believe that I have received a letter from the body my hon. Friend mentions. I have also received communications from such bodies as the A.M.C. and the C.C.A., which are very much against the making of this regulation.

Mr. Montgomery

Is the Secretary of State aware that he has the support of the overwhelming majority of teachers in the policy he is now pursuing, which is a great improvement on that pursued by his predecessor?

Mr. Short

I do not think that making a regulation would make any difference. There are black sheep in every profession who, no matter what the regulations are, will over-step the mark. I do not think that making regulations will alter that.