THE EDUCATION BILL.

Colonist, Volume LI, Issue 12407, 24 November 1908, Page 2

THE EDUCATION BILL.

LAUDATION OF MR RTJNCIMAN. Received, November 23; 11.55 p.m. London, Nov. 23. Mr Runcimari's Education Bill was formally read a first time, and is now published. It is hailed with some hope. "Tho Times" remarks thaii since it is impossible to induco tho negotiating parties each to make an. ultimate concession, the Government proposes as a via media its own authority. Whatever the fate or the merits of the Bill, the concensxis. of this masterly policy has enhanced Mr Runciman's political reputation, and snatched the possibility of success from the brink of failure. The Bill makes the County Council type of school general, , abolishes tests, and offers denominations t^io right of entry to all schools. Assistant teachers are allowed to volunteer to give denominational teaching twice a week. The local authorities' permission can only be withheld if tho services required affect I the general conduct and discipline of the school. Contracting out, except in single school areas, js permitted, on the basis of relinquishing the rate, but receiving a largely-increased State grant. Mr Balfour was not consulted.. '