HC Deb 15 May 1973 vol 856 cc1229-30
13. Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will seek to arrange a meeting with the newly-elected President of the National Union of Teachers.

22. Mr. Stallard

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will have discussions with the newly-elected President of the National Union of Teachers.

Mrs. Thatcher

It is my usual practice to see the president at his request. I have no immediate plans to invite him to a meeting.

Mr. Cox

Is not the right hon. Lady fully aware of the detailed and general criticism which was made by the recently-elected president of her education policies and, in particular, of the callous indifference which she continues to show about the London teachers' allowance and London school buildings? Does she not think in view of the importance of these matters to people and to children, that she should have the courage to face a public debate so that the people of Great Britain can judge her policies as against the problems which the NUT is now experiencing?

Mrs. Thatcher

The President of the NUT made certain criticisms. Indeed, he received a very effective reply.

Mr. Stallard

Will the right hon. Lady try to discuss with the President of the NUT the terrible plight of young teachers who are trying to find living accommodation in London? Is she aware that the teachers have put forward constructive proposals for the solution of some of these problems in Inner London? Further, is she aware that the price of property in London is far beyond the reach of teachers even in posts of responsibility earning £3,000 per annum or thereabouts? Does she realise that it is impossible for young teachers, even taking joint incomes into account, to get mortgages to buy living accommodation in London? Will she seek an urgent meeting with the President of the NUT to discuss his constructive proposals for a solution?

Mrs. Thatcher

I understand from the latest Burnham settlement that at the request of teachers no increase was made in the London allowance. It is customary after the conference of the National Union of Teachers for the executive to see me and to discuss the resolutions.