§ Mr. HAYDENasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether the number of promotions to the higher grades of national school teachers is strictly limited owing to the high average attendance required and the exacting character of the reports upon which such promotions are made; and whether, in view of the fact that owing to the operation of the Treasury Regulation of standard numbers it is impossible for teachers to reach the maximum salaries before retirement on pension, he will recommend the abolition of these standard numbers as a matter of urgent necessity?
§ Mr. BIRRELLIt is difficult to say how far the existing rules limit promotions, but I shall be glad to consider any statistics which may be submitted to me on the subject in order to see whether they afford a ground for recommending an alteration in the standard numbers. It is not correct to say that it is impossible for teachers to reach the maximum salaries before retirement on pension.