Socred education

NZSPA Political Reporter

Wellington. — A Parliamentary undersecretary for university education would be included in a Social Credit Government, according to the league's manifesto.

A Bachelor of Education four-year degree course for teacher trainees and autonomy for teachers' colleges have also been proposed.

Hold-ups over educational buildings would be removed by eliminating the need for Ministry of Works approval of architect's plans. All universities have complained of these delays frequently over the past year.

"We see as quite unnecessary the present need for education boards — notwithstanding the fact that their annual grants have been approved — to have to refer any programme involving the expenditure of over a certain amount, either back to Wellington, or for further approval, to the Works Committee of Cabinet," the manifesto added.

"Such a practice is a waste of Cabinet Ministers' time, delays people from getting on with the job, and shows a peculiar lack of trust in local administrators."

The League would accelerate university building programmes including halls of residence and student union buildings.

"Social Credit would allow generous taxation reductions to attract industry, interested bodies and individuals to establish scholarships and chairs of study by endowment.

"Accrediting for university entrance would be abolished by Social Credit, and financial assistance would be given to universities to enable them to mark examination papers.