HC Deb 13 July 1950 vol 477 cc109-10W
15. Mr. G. Williams

asked the Minister ot Education why the National Association of Schoolmasters is not represented on the Burnham Committee.

Mr. Tomlinson

My Department has from time to time received representations from several associations of teachers, of which the National Association of Schoolmasters is one, claiming that they should be represented on the Burnham 'Committee. All these representations have been very carefully considered, and in some cases the matter has been discussed at personal interviews. I consider that the present composition of the Teachers' Panels on the Burnham Committees is already wide enough to ensure that the general views of teachers are represented, and I do not think that the addition of individuals from these minority associations would facilitate negotiations. Having regard particuarly to the definition of the powers under Section 89 of the Education Act, 1944, I am not prepared to insist on the inclusion of representatives of this Association.