HC Deb 14 July 1971 vol 821 cc481-2
20. Mr. MacArthur

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what, according to the latest application figures, is his present estimate of the likely intake for next session of graduates into postgraduate and post-diploma secondary teaching courses in colleges of education, and how this estimate compares with the actual figure for the present session ; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Edward Taylor

On the basis of the applications received by the colleges up to 7th July, 2,200 graduates compared with 1,496 last year and 600 specialist diploma holders compared with 521. The increase in the graduate entry is likely to be particularly marked in mathematics and science.

Mr. MacArthur

Can my hon. Friend say to what extent this welcome increase of 783 graduates is likely to offset the expected shortage of secondary teachers in Scotland following the raising of the school leaving age?

Mr. Taylor

There is no question that these very encouraging figures make the position look better than it did on our previous estimates. It is a very encouraging trend, and if it continues the problems which we thought we would have to face will be reduced.