HC Deb 27 November 1947 vol 444 cc309-10W
92. Mr. Haydn Davies

asked the Minister of Education whether he is aware of the concern felt by men awaiting admission to emergency colleges as a result of statements that his Department is pro-posing to close down certain of the men's colleges; and whether, in order to relieve anxiety, he will make the position clear.

Mr. Tomlinson

In view of the acute shortage of women teachers, a certain number of emergency colleges for men will be converted into women's colleges. This does not imply any intention of turning away men who have already been accepted for emergency training. It may, however, have some effect on the waiting period, particulars of which will shortly be communicated to waiting candidates in a bulletin issued by my Department.

93. Mr. Haydn Davies

asked the Minister of Education whether, in view of the fact that allowances at vocational centres and at rehabilitation schools have been increased by ten shillings per week for those over twenty, he will now consider the necessity for revising the scale of allowances paid to students undergoing courses in emergency training colleges.

Mr. Tomlinson

The circumstances are entirely different. Allowances to students in emergency training colleges are based on the rates paid to students taking courses under the Further Education and Training Scheme at the universities and other places of further education. These rates were increased as recently as August, 1946, and I have no evidence of the need for a further increase at present.