§ Sir E. Graham-Littleasked the Minister of Education how often the two advisory councils, one for England and one for Wales, appointed to advise the Minister, have met since their establishment; when was the last date on which each was consulted; and how far the numerous ad hoc committees appointed since the Act was passed abstract from the functions of the two central advisory councils whose duty it was to advise her upon all matters connected with educational theory and practice.
§ Miss WilkinsonThe Central Advisory Council for Education for England has held 17 meetings and the corresponding Council for Wales 8 meetings, in addition to meetings of sub-committees. Each Council at its inception undertook to investigate and report on certain subjects of inquiry, and no formal consultation has subsequently taken place. I do not regard the setting up ofad hoc committees concerned with specialised problems in the educational field as derogating from the 40W functions of the Councils, and I would point out that under Section 4 of the Act the duty of the Advisory Councils is to advise the Minister on such matters connected with educational theory and practice as they think fit, and upon any questions referred to them by the Minister.