§ Sir P. Harrisasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education why permission has been withdrawn for scholars at central schools who have reached the age of 16 before the expiration of a holiday to return to school; and whether, especially in the light of the large amount of unemployment in many districts, the Board will reconsider its decision?
Mr. LindsayThe hon. Member appears to be under a misapprehension. The retention of pupils in public elementary schools beyond the end of the term in which they reach the age of 16 can, under Section 26 of the Education Act, 1921, be permitted only if justified by special circumstances, and the Board consider each case on its merits. They have given no decision of general application such as is suggested in the question.