§ 82. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Education whether the report of the investigation into the case of a girl nine years of age who had her lips sealed with sticking plaster by a teacher in Salford recently has been completed; and what action she proposes to take in the matter.
§ Miss HorsbrughI have received a report from the local education authority, who have completed their inquiries and taken suitable action. I am satisfied that no action on my part is called for.
§ Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Education whether her attention has been called to the case of a boy, aged 13 years, who was caned in a Cardiff mixed and infant school recently, as a result of which he received six weals from three to seven inches long on his back and other injuries; what was the crime for which this punishment was given; and how far such treatment is in accordance with the regulations.
§ Miss HorsbrughI have seen reports of this incident in the Press. The punishment was given for alleged impudence and insubordination. Regulations about corporal punishment are made by local education and school authorities and are not subject to my approval.