Which 1944 British education law is commonly called the Butler Act?

The Education Act 1944 is commonly called the Butler Act.

The law was introduced by R. A. Butler, who was President of the Board of Education during the Second World War. It reorganized education in England and Wales and became one of the central foundations of the post-war education system.

The Act expanded the role of local education authorities and created a clearer division between primary and secondary schooling. It also made education authorities responsible for providing school meals and milk, with charges capable of being reduced or waived in cases of hardship.

The law received Royal Assent on August 3, 1944. It was gradually replaced by later legislation, with its remaining provisions repealed in 1996. “Butler Act” refers to its sponsor, not to a separate statute.