Universities and Colleges (Exchange of Teachers)

Oral Answers to Questions — Education – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 2 July 1959.

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Photo of Sir Austen Albu Sir Austen Albu , Edmonton 12:00, 2 July 1959

asked the Minister of Education if he is aware of the difficulties in the exchange of teachers between universities and colleges of technology arising out of their differing schemes of superannuation; and whether he will consult with the authorities responsible for the Federated Superannuation System for Universities, with a view to making the two schemes transferable.

Photo of Sir Edward Boyle Sir Edward Boyle , Birmingham Handsworth

The possibility of transfer between the two superannuation systems has been exhaustively considered and found to be impracticable. There are, however, arrangements for integrating service under the two schemes and I believe these are not as widely understood as they might be. I am looking into this matter and will let the hon. Member know my views very soon.

Photo of Sir Austen Albu Sir Austen Albu , Edmonton

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that, in order to fill the vacancies arising in the colleges of advanced technology and the regional technical colleges, it will be absolutely necessary for the senior vacancies to go to the universities, but that at the present time the difference between the two schemes is causing many suitable university applicants to turn down jobs as principals and heads of departments in colleges of technology? Does the Parliamentary Secretary accept that this arises out of the very substantial life insurance component of the F.S.S.U. scheme after a man has been in employment in a post for about ten years?

Photo of Sir Edward Boyle Sir Edward Boyle , Birmingham Handsworth

It is a most important matter. Transfer has been found to be impracticable mainly because the pensions under the F.S.S.U. scheme, which are based on an insurance policy, are different in extent and kind from those under public service superannuation schemes. The arrangements for integration are rather complicated, and I will try to explain them by letter to the hon. Member. I shall, of course, bear this point in mind.