HC Deb 11 May 1925 vol 183 cc1440-1
Mr. GROVES

asked the President of the Board of Education if he has any information respecting the number of children throughout the country suffering from tuberculosis for whom no educational years old? They are nearly an inch wide, provision is being made; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter

Lord E, PERCY

According to the returns of local authorities for the year ended December 31st last, there were, in England and Wales, 8,834 children suffering from some form of tuberculosis who were attending no recognised school or institution. Probably some of these children could suitably sent to openair schools by local authorities, and I am doing all I can to encourage the development of this type of school; but the majority are not physically fit to receive formal instruction in school, and, therefore, fall outside the scope of my Department

Mr. GROVES

Is it possible for the right hon. Gentleman's Department to grant special financial facilities to local education authorities in this particular matter, that is, the provision of openair schools for tuberculous children?

Lord E. PERCY

As a general rule I am very strongly opposed to differential grants for anything. I think a general rate of grant is far sounder, but I shall be glad if the hon. Member will consult with me