HC Deb 03 February 1949 vol 460 cc262-3W
90. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Education how many grammar schools are short of science teachers; what is the cause of the shortage; and what steps is he taking to increase the number.

Mr. Tomlinson

Exact figures are not available, but I am aware that many schools are finding it difficult to fill vacancies for science graduates. This appears to be mainly due to the increased demand for science graduates in professions other than teaching and the increased demands of the schools themselves and the dislocation of University courses during the war. More graduates will be completing their university courses in this and later years, and this should lead to some improvement, but I am keeping the matter under review, and will continue to do so, in consultation with the local education authorities and other bodies concerned.