§ Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many certified teachers there now are in Scotland; how many will be required after the raising of the school-leaving age in 1970; and what estimate he has made of the actual number likely to be available in 1970.
§ Mr. Ross:I do not yet have figures for the current session, but at December, 1966, there were 39,359 certified teachers in public and grant-aided schools in Scotland. Latest statistical forecasts indicate that by 1970–71 there will be 45,800 teachers available and a requirement of 46,700 teachers. The shortage of 900 teachers is a net figure. The shortage in the secondary schools will be 3,900 and there will be a surplus of 3,000 in the primary schools. These forecasts are based on the present pattern of teacher-training and recruitment. They also reflect the present prescribed maximum class 531W sizes and the existing pattern of distribution of teachers between primary and secondary schools.