asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the number of children per teacher in the Northern Region, and in England and Wales, respectively; and in each case what proportion of the teachers is temporary.

In the spring term of 1963 there were 24·9 pupils per teacher (including the full-time equivalent of part-time teachers) in the Northern Region, compared with 24·0 in England and Wales. 1·5 per cent. of the full-time teachers in the Northern Region were temporary teachers compared with 1·6 per cent. in England and Wales.

Is the Secretary of State aware that his definition of temporary teachers does not seem to take into account the more rapid rate of turnover of teachers which must be called for in the Northern Region? Is he further aware that the difference in the number of children per teacher between the Northern Region and the rest of the country does clearly indicate the disparity in teacher provision which it is the responsibility of his Department to correct?

It does indicate a disparity of 0·91. As regards the first part of the hon. Gentleman's Question, I would say that if I am asked a statistical question I must give the answer to it in the terms in which it is asked.

Despite the fact that there is a certain shortage of teachers in the country, would my right hon. Friend confirm to us that we have no intention of indulging in the part-time attendance of children at school, as seems to be the policy of the Opposition, in which there is a certain amount of doubt?

I hope we shall learn one lesson, and that is not to try to prejudge the findings of the Plowden Committee.