§ Mr. Spriggsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if the London borough of Bexley has now been advised by her Department that it is not empowered to continue to employ unqualified persons as teachers in special schools; and if she will make a statement.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonThe London borough of Bexley local education authority has been advised that, in the Department's view, the continued employment in a special school of an unqualified teacher 9W first appointed after 31st March 1971 is contrary to the provisions in the Handicapped Pupils and Special Schools Regulations 1959 if a qualified teacher is available for appointment. Several months ago the authority appeared to have accepted this view, but it now seems that it has not and has decided not to advertise two posts at present filled by unqualified teachers. My right hon. Friend is considering the position.