§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received from the Society of Immigrant Teachers alleging discrimination against black teachers; what assessment he has made of the extent of such discrimination; and what reply he has given to the society.
§ Dr. BoysonMy right hon. and learned Friend has received from the hon. Member for Tottenham (Mr. Atkinson) a copy of a circular letter from the society alleging84W discrimination against black teachers in obtaining teaching appointments and promotion. Teachers in maintained schools are employed by local education authorities or governing bodies, and individual complaints about discrimination in the field of employment are matters for industrial tribunals in accordance with the Race Relations Act 1976.
The Commission for Racial Equality also has important functions in relation to the enforcement of this Act, including the investigation of alleged discriminatory practices. My Department has no evidence which would support the general allegations made by the society.