HC Deb 15 April 1914 vol 61 cc159-61
13. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that the latest published figures of schools in Bootle still show overcrowded classrooms; whether the new council school is sufficient to supply all deficiencies; and whether he will approach the local education authority with the view of sufficient school places being provided immediately?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD Of EDUCATION (Mr. Pease)

According to the latest returns in the possession of the Board (which are for last month) the average attendance exceeded the recognised accommodation in three departments by three, six, and eight units, respectively. I understand that if the new Balliol Council School fails to relieve pressure in other schools the local education authority propose to add 220 places to the Gray Street Council School. In the circumstances, I do not at present think it necessary to take further action.

14. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that of the thirty infant school departments in Birkenhead twenty-one are refusing to admit children of school age, because those already on the roll largely exceed the recognised accommodation; and whether he will take immediate steps to insist upon the local education authority providing sufficient accommodation?

Mr. PEASE

I am unable to verify the statement contained in the hon. Member's question while the schools are closed for the Easter holidays. I will make inquiries when the schools are reopened and communicate the result to the hon. Member.

15. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that in the case of the nine infant school departments in schools at Birkenhead which are not overcrowded two charge weekly fees of 2d. and 4d. for infants attending; that three are inconveniently situated at a distance from the homes of the school population; that one has no playground at all; and that two charge fees in the higher classes; and whether, in view of these facts, he will urge the local education authority of Birkenhead to abolish school fees and to provide better school accommodation?

Mr. PEASE

It is difficult to verify the statements contained in the hon. Member's question without knowing the names of the departments to which he refers. If he will be so good as to let me know the names of the departments, I will make inquiries and communicate the result to the hon. Member.

Sir J. D. REES

Are the technical requirements of the Code for children enforced as a matter of course, without any regard for the circumstances of the unfortunate parents?

Mr. PEASE

I do not quite understand what the hon. Gentleman means. The Code, of course, is enforced, and accommodation must be provided for children of school age irrespective of the parents, and under the Acts of Parliament relating to education.

Sir J. D. REES

And irrespective of the rates made—[An HON. MEMBER: "It is the law!"]—so that if there seems a necessity the Code is—

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member had better put the question down.