HC Deb 20 April 1915 vol 71 cc194-5
104. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that the architect to the Board took part in experiments, made at Birkenhead on 20th November, 1913, into the ventilation of schools; whether any report was made to the Board on these ventilation tests; and, if so, whether the report has been or will be made public?

Dr. ADDISON

The answer to the first-part of the question is in the affirmative. The Board's architect did not in this case submit any formal report, but even if he had it is not my practice to publish the advice given by my officers on matters affecting the administration of the Board or other Departments.

Mr. KING

Is the hon. Gentleman a ware-that there is a great deal of uncertainty in the policy of the Board with regard to ventilation inquiries, and consequent difficulty arising in formulating plans by the local education authorities?

Dr. ADDISON

The schools are provided by the local authorities.

105. Mr. KING

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that a special system of ventilation has been installed, with eminent success, in fifteen schools in Glasgow, three schools in Liverpool, six schools in St. Helens, two schools in London, and in many other places, and that the cost of this system is not now allowed to be provided for by loans sanctioned to education authorities; and whether, in view of the alleged effectiveness of this system and the satisfaction given to local authorities who have installed it, an inquiry into it will be undertaken and the results published for guidance in building?

Dr. ADDISON

The sanctioning of loans is not a matter for the Board of Education, and I see no reason for making the inquiry suggested.

Mr. KING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that methods of ventilation which have been so successful elsewhere, especially in Scotland, are being prohibited in the case of English schools, with the result that you have one policy in Scotland, the best policy there, and the worse policy in England?

Dr. ADDISON

We have very carefully considered the subject of ventilation, and we find that most methods of ventilation by their supporters are considered to be the best.