HC Deb 27 July 1961 vol 645 cc83-4W
Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Education what progress there has been in the preparation of schemes for agricultural education between local education authorities in Wales, as reported in paragraph 308 of the White Paper, Wales, Command Paper No. 1293.

Mr. K. Thompson

The Welsh Joint Education Committee divided Wales into five regions for the preparation of these schemes. Two regions have submitted schemes to the Committee and two others are expected to do so at an early date. The fifth scheme is in preparation. The Joint Committee will forward the schemes for my right hon. Friend's consideration as soon as they are in a position to do so.

pupils in maintained and assisted schools are in oversize classes.

Mr. K. Thompson

During the next few years the number of seniors on roll will decline. My right hon. Friend expects therefore that a sustained flow of graduates, reinforced by the steps he has taken to improve the supply of specialist teachers from the training colleges and to recruit more married women teachers, will result in smaller classes.