THE EDUCATION QUESTION.

Otago Witness, Issue 2857, 16 December 1908, Page 19

THE EDUCATION QUESTION.

LONDON, December 7. The Primate, in a letter to Mr Runciman, reiterates his statement that the inconsistencies reported regarding "con-tracting-out" schools were the exception, not the rule. The financial estimates of cost under the abandoned Education Bill were largely conjectural on both sides. Dr Davidson, agpeals for a further opportunity of considering the bill, and emphasises the continually-growing desire of the country for a well-balanced settlement on the lines of the proposed compromise. . The Times supports the proposal of the Prknate, but recognises that the (Government is in a difficulty until there is come, central educational- agency adequately lepreseutdng the opinion of the Anglican 01) arch as a whole, - December 8. The House of Commons has assented to the" withdrawal of %he Education Bill. - Mr Asquith remarked that, the correspondence showed that oondatioas Were imposed, and he agreed that the chance of a settlement did not exist at present. He expressed deep personal disappointment at the - breakdown of the bill, and bis admiration for the strenuous, patient, and indomitable efforts of Mr Runciman and the peacemakers on both sides. Mr Asquith designated the Primate as" " the great archbishop." Mr Balfour said he recognised Mr Asquith's sincerity, but he criticised the attempt to rush a bill through containing in black and white only what the Church was called on to relinquish and leaving it open, until the end what she should receive. December 10. A meeting of the Education Committee ■resolved to continue its efforts for a compromise on the education question. Lord Cfcomer and Mr A. Lyttelton strenuously advocated a moderate common-sense arrangement which would respect all forms of .conscientious religious belief. Dr Ingram (Bishop of London) ©ent a hearty message of encouragement.