§ Mr. Elystan Morganasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many more secondary school teachers are expected to be employed in Wales when the school leaving age is raised to 16 years.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeI estimate that a little over 1,000 more teachers will be employed in maintained schools in Wales in the school year 1973–74 than in 1972–73. It is for the local education authority to allocate them between primary26W and secondary schools but the majority are likely to go to secondary schools.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she is satisfied with the teachers' salary negotiations procedure, in view of the fact that the management side by breaking off negotiations can bring the issue to arbitration; if she will reconsider the procedure in the light of the teachers' protests; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mrs. ThatcherThe arrangements for arbitration are neutral as between the two sides of a Burnham Committee. It is open to either to suggest reference to arbitration. If the other side does not agree, the reference is made only if the independent chairman is satisfied that both sides have tabled all the proposals that they wish to have considered and that full opportunity for discussion and negotiation has been allowed.
These arrangements have existed since 1965. I am ready to consider on their merits any constructive proposals for changes in the procedures which command broad support among the parties.
§ Mr. Knoxasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she can now make a statement on progress towards the establishment of a teachers' general council.
§ Mrs. ThatcherI have nothing to add to the reply given to the Question by the hon. Member for Cornwall, North (Mr. Pardoe) on 18th November last.—[Vol. 826, cols. 180–1.]