§ 24. Mr. TREVELYANasked the President of the Board of Education how many applications he has received since 1926 from local education authorities or other 2046 bodies to establish nursery schools; if any of these applications has been refused; and what is to-day the total number of nursery schools and their total accommodation?
Duchess of ATHOLLSince the beginning of last year my right hon. Friend has received from local authorities two proposals for the establishment of nursery schools, of which one has been approved and the other is under consideration. In addition, one nursery school provided by a voluntary body has been opened during this period. No proposals have been refused. There are at present 26 recognised nursery schools, of which 11 are provided by local education authorities and 15 by other bodies, providing a total accommodation for 1,367 children.
§ Mr. HARRISIs the policy of the Board to recognise reasonable suggestions that these schools should be provided?
Duchess of ATHOLLI think the answer I have read gives an indication of the policy of the Board. No proposal has been refused since January, 1926.
Viscountess ASTORIs the policy of the Board to encourage these schools? Does the Noble Lady realise that out of a thousand examined in 1926, 48 per cent, were proved rickety and the only way to deal with rickets in slum areas is through nursery schools, and is the policy of the Board really to encourage it?
Duchess of ATHOLLI think I have pointed out in debate that nursery schools are not the only means of dealing with rickety children. Very valuable work is also being done by day nurseries.
Viscountess ASTORIs not the number so dealt with very small compared with what could be done by nursery schools?