HC Deb 14 July 1953 vol 517 cc146-7W
94. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many protests have now been made concerning the proposals to lower entrance qualifications to teacher training colleges; and whether he will now reconsider such proposals.

Mr. J. Stuart

I have received written objections from four education authorities and from the Edinburgh and Glasgow Provincial Committees for the Training of Teachers. In addition objections have come from the Education Institute of Scotland and three of its branches, the Scottish Association of Certified Women Teachers and two of its branches, the Scottish Secondary Teachers' Association, and three individuals. As I indicated to the hon. Member on 30th June, I will reach a decision as soon as possible after the period for making representations has expired.

Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

96, 97 and 98. asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) in view of the fact that the shortage of teachers in science and mathematics is general on both sides of the Border, what liaison the committee appointed to advise him on this shortage will have with the Ministry of Education and other interested Ministries;

(2) what interests will be represented on the committee he hopes to set up to advise him on the shortage of teachers in science and mathematics; and, in view of the fact that the universities and industry are interested in seeing that the supply of such teachers is improved, if he will include on the committee university representatives and representatives of science-based industry;

(3) what will be the terms of reference of the committee he hopes to set up to advise him on the shortage of teachers in science and mathematics; and when he hopes to set it up.

Mr. J. Stuart

I propose to set up the committee as soon as possible and I hope to announce its terms of reference before Parliament rises. Meanwhile, I can assure the hon. Member that it is intended to include representatives of the interests he has referred to and that there will be adequate liaison with England.

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