HC Deb 27 March 1922 vol 152 c944
59. Mr. AMMON

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that, on grounds of economy, a number of the special schools in London for physically and mentally defective children are being closed; and whether, in view of the certain injury that will fall to the children as a result, he will take steps to maintain all such existing special schools?

Mr. FISHER

The only proposal, of which I am aware, for the closure of a special school in London relates to a small school for physically defective children conducted in the premises of a voluntary hospital. In this case the children are to be transferred to other schools. I am not aware of any other proposals to close special schools for physically and mentally defective children in London on the grounds of economy.

Mr. AMMON

If I supply the right hon. Gentleman with particulars of schools, is he prepared to look into them?

Mr. FISHER

Certainly.

Mr. AMMON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in spite of his statement that the law age limit would not be raised, by the closing of the smaller schools large schools are being overcrowded and children cannot go to the special schools until they are seven years of age?

Mr. FISHER

I was not aware of it. If the hon. Member will bring me the particulars he has in mind, I shall be pleased to meet him.