HC Deb 31 March 1960 vol 620 c165W
Mr. Montgomery

asked the Minister of Education, in view of the fact that his decision to exclude the National Association of Schoolmasters from membership of the Burnham Committee is causing grave concern to a large number of Members on both sides of the House, if he will reconsider his decision.

Sir D. Eccles

Very careful consideration was given to the claim that the composition of the Burnham Committee should be altered, and I am not prepared to alter my decision on the matter.

Mr. Hirst

asked the Minister of Education when he expects the composition of the Burnham Committee to be amended so as to ensure that all the major interests vitally concerned in education are adequately represented.

Sir D. Eccles

The 1944 Education Act requires me to appoint a Committee consisting of persons appointed by bodies representing local education authorities and teachers respectively. In my judgment, the present composition of the Burnham Committee does this adequately.