§ 36. Mr. Edelmanasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations have been made to him by the National Union of Teachers in connection with the dismissal of 193 part-time teachers in Coventry; and what reply he has given.
Mr. ShortI have received representations directly, through my hon. Friend himself, and through my hon. Friend the Member for Coventry, South (Mr. William Wilson) expressing their own concern and that of the National Union of Teachers about the dismissal of part-time teachers. While the matter is one primarily for the local education authority, I have expressed my regret that, unlike the great majority of authorities, they have regarded such dismissals as necessary. Whatever the financial difficulties of authorities I regard the employment of teachers as a high priority.