‘Yellow list’ unjust, Nelson M.P. says

Press, 9 June 1982, Page 14

‘Yellow list’ unjust, Nelson M.P. says

PA Wellington The Education Department has been accused of acting outside the law in maintaining a "yellow list" of teachers considered to be "of doubtful suitability" for State school teaching. The Labour Party’s spokesman on education. Mr P. T. E. Woollaston (Nelson), said the list was clearly contrary to the principles of natural justice, and gave those involved no chance to defend themselves. "Section 135 of the Education Act specifically allows the director-general, with the approval of the Minister, to have removed from the teachers' register the names of teachers whom he considers to have been guilty of conduct which renders them unfit to be a teacher. Section 131 of the act stipulates ‘that no person shall be eligible to be appointed to be,- or to

continue to be. a teacher unless registered ." he said. "This process seems to work satisfactorily, as from time to time notice is given in the Education Gazette that certain names have been removed from the teachers’ register. "The significant difference between that procedure and the ‘yellow list’ is that the Education Act also requires the director-general to notify the teacher concerned of the decision and the reasons for it. The teacher may appeal against that decision before a magistrate appointed for the purpose." Mr Woollaston said.

That process was just and reasonable and had the sanction of Parliament. It was difficult to see a reason for the "yellow list" other than to protect education officials and the Minister from public scrutiny of their actions. ,