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Proceeding contribution from Evan Harris (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Commons on Thursday, 2 November 2006. It occurred during Debate on bill on Education and Inspections Bill.


Education and Inspections Bill

Yes, that is correct. Otherwise, on what basis would one oppose discrimination? Obviously, the Catholic may faith argue that every single teacher and member of staff in its schools must be Catholic in order to uphold the ethos. I would argue that an ethos is an ethos and is not dependent on the religious views of individuals in that state school. The job of the school is to teach. There is already difficulty, as we have heard, in finding enough people of the correct faith to appoint to specific schools, particularly head teachers. My hon. Friend will have to defend a situation which is the logical consequence of what he says, in which every teacher must undergo a faith test if the ethos is to be fully upheld.


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
451 c527 
Session
2005-06
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Conditions of employment Accountability Admissions Curriculum Disadvantaged Community development Costs Community schools Classroom assistants Collective worship Fees and charges Education Governing bodies Human rights Inspections Exemptions Faith schools Headteachers Discrimination Low incomes Local education authorities Public appointments Pupils Staff Music Travel Schools Teachers Special educational needs Trade unions Secondary education Rural areas Sixth form education Islam Musical instruments Trust schools
Legislation
Education and Inspections Bill 2005-06
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk