HC Deb 24 October 1935 vol 305 cc341-2W
Mr. LECKIE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many children left the State-aided schools in Scotland before the age of 14 during each of the last three years; and whether he will take steps to level up the school-leaving age regulations to those in force in England and Wales?

Sir G. COLLINS

The number of children under the age of 14 exempted from the obligation to attend school during each of the school years 1933, 1934 and 1935 was 2,923, 3,790 and 3,238 respectively. The provisions for exemption are being carefully examined in connection with the consideration of the question of raising the school-leaving age; but I regret I am not in a position to make any statement at the moment.