HC Deb 18 April 1940 vol 359 c1157W
Lieut.-Colonel Macnamara

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that serving in the Army at present there are a number of young men who joined the Territorials before the war and who should, in normal circumstances, be sitting for their teachers' examinations this summer; whether, in view of the fact that compulsory service has not been made to apply to similar young men since the war started, he will take special measures to see that the future careers of the young men serving in the war are not in any way prejudiced; and whether, as it is extremely difficult for these men to take the full examinations, he will consider allowing them to do a modified test instead?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I am aware that students in training colleges who joined the Territorials have been called up for military service before completing the course necessary to secure their recognition as certificated teachers. I am not in a position at this stage to say what further period of training, if any, will be required of such students on demobilisation, but the hon. and gallant Member may rest assured that every possible step will be taken to prevent their careers being prejudiced. I am afraid it is not practicable to arrange for students who are already in the Forces to be released for the purpose of studying for a modified test.