HC Deb 07 July 1966 vol 731 cc89-90W
61. Sir E. Bullus

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science by what authority students from the London University were permitted to require questionnaires to be completed by primary schoolchildren in the London Borough of Brent, giving details of their parents' employment, household and other matters; and for what purpose this exercise was carried out.

Mr. Crosland

By the authority of the Brent Local Education Authority research workers—not students—were permitted to ask, not require, children to complete questionnaires. The purpose was to assist in carrying out a research project, being conducted in several countries, regarding the relationship between school achievement and vocational interests.

62. Sir R. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will send a circular explaining to local education authorities his policy with regard to students visiting primary schools in order to obtain from children personal information concerning their family backgrounds.

Mr. Crosland

I do not think that children should be so questioned by outside persons and I propose to discuss the matter with the local authority associations.

63. Sir R. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science in how many London boroughs students from the London University or London School of Economics have been authorised to question primary school children about their family backgrounds.

Mr. Crosland

None; but in two boroughs research workers have been so authorised by the local authorities.