§ 28. Mr. W. BAKERasked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that his officials are objecting to one or more schemes for playing fields in Bristol on the ground that the money cannot now be spent in view of Memorandum 44; and whether, having regard to the long standing need for such playing fields, he will cancel the instructions?
§ Lord E. PERCYI assume the hon. Member is referring to the Authority's proposals for the acquisition of playing fields at Gordon Road and Filton. The former proposal was approved by my Department on 10th February; as regards the latter, I am in communication with the authority.
§ 40. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the President of the Board of Education whether the Tottenham Education Authority will be allowed to acquire two playing fields of five and nine acres which it was intending to purchase prior to Memorandum No. 44?
§ Lord E. PERCYThe proposal for the acquisition of the nine-acre site is under consideration in connection with the authority's revised estimates. In the 690 case of the other site I understand that legal difficulties have arisen as regards its acquisition by the urban district council, and it is therefore premature to consider the question of the appropriation of part of it for educational purposes.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIn consequence of the universal dissatisfaction with Memorandum 44, does not the Noble Lord think it is time that he withdrew it?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is a matter for argument.
§ 44. Mr. R. RICHARDSONasked the President of the Board of Education whether the Luton education authority will be permitted to prepare, by fencing or otherwise, two playing fields which have been purchased for the school children of the town?
§ Lord E. PERCYYes, Sir; I am approving the authority's proposal.