INDUSTRIAL AND REFORMATORY SCHOOLS.

HC Deb 02 May 1922 vol 153 c1155

29. Mr. SEXTON

asked the Home Secretary how many industrial and reformatory schools have been closed during the past two years; and what reduction of staff, if any, has accrued in his Department as a consequence?

Mr. SHORTT

Thirty-two schools have been closed. The Chief Inspector's clerical staff has been reduced by two clerks and a vacancy for an inspector has not been filled.

Mr. MORGAN JONES

Have the children been removed from these schools to other schools?

Mr. SHORTT

Yes, when a school is closed the children are transferred to vacant places in equally good schools.

Lieut.-Colonel NALL

Why has not the number of inspectors been reduced?

Mr. SHORTT

Owing to the very largely increased amount of work in the schools, an increase of staff would have been necessary but for the closing of some schools.