§ Mr. DEVLINasked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the recent new legislation in education in Scottish schools, he will arrange that the forth- 664W coming elections for the new educational boards in Scotland will be postponed until the new register, which will shortly be published, is ready?
§ Mr. MUNROIt is in the public interest that such matters of pressing importance, as the settlement of minimum national scales of salaries for teachers, the transfer of voluntary schools and the improved educational arrangements contemplated by the Act, should be dealt with at the earliest possible opportunity. It is accordingly inexpedient that the elections should be postponed as suggested. The new register will not be available till 15th May, and it seems improbable that elections can be held upon it before the month of July. Moreover, any substantial improvement of the register, particularly as regards demobilised soldiers, cannot reasonably be expected for a considerable time.