§ Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Minister of Education why a teacher leaving the profession is asked to repay a commuted amount of the cost of his college training.
§ Mr. TomlinsonPublic funds are spent on the training of teachers so that the supply may, so far as possible, meet the needs of the schools. It is therefore important that students who have signed a declaration of their intention to teach in grant-aided schools should not lightly abandon their intention. I exercise my 97W discretion in asking for repayment of grant according to individual circumstances; for example, the amount may be reduced where a period of approved teaching service has been given.
§ Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Minister of Education if he will consider altering the provisions of the Teachers Superannuation Acts, 1937 and 1945, relating to payment of contributions in certain cases for limited intervals in contributory service, so that the period of absence while a teacher is a Member of Parliament may be altered.
§ Mr. TomlinsonNo. After full consideration it was decided in 1945 not to adopt the course suggested by my hon. Friend, and I see no reason for re-considering the question now.