HC Deb 23 April 1969 vol 782 cc451-2
12. Mr. Adam Hunter

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he estimates the current shortage of teachers in Scottish primary schools will be overcome; and to what extent this is taken into account in the total number of married women now being trained in college.

Mr. Millan

I hope the national shortage will be overcome within the next year or two, although there may still be difficulty in some areas. I do not contemplate any restriction on the admission of married women to teacher training.

Mr. Hunter

Is my hon. Friend aware that concern is being expressed in England by those undertaking teacher-training, both young and mature students, about finding that a job is not available when they have finished their training? Does he foresee similar concern being expressed in Scotland?

Mr. Millan

I am glad to say that I am not responsible for England. No such concern has been expressed in Scotland, and I do not think that it will arise there.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that Glasgow is carrying more than its fair share of the teacher shortage? Can he give any idea of the percentage of children in Glasgow who are now receiving part-time education in primary schools?

Mr. Millan

If the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question about that, I will certainly answer it.