§ 16. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has come to any arrangement with the Glasgow Education Authority as to the new schools which are to be built in that city; and, if not, when he will be in a position to make a statement?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe position with regard to this matter has not altered in the 13 days which have elapsed since the date of the hon. Member's last question on the subject. In reply to the latter part of the question, I can only refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave on that occasion.
§ Mr. BUCHANANCan the right hon. Gentleman give any approximate idea as to when these negotiations will come to a conclusion?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI do not think it is possible to give any definite date. This is a very big problem, and the discussions, of course, have covered a considerable time.
§ Mr. BUCHANANSeeing that the negotiations have extended over a period of years, and that there are certain schools in a very bad condition, cannot the right hon. Gentleman at least make temporary arrangements for the schools in a bad condition to be replaced or reconditioned?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI am satisfied that the Departments and the authorities are discussing the matter, and every attempt will be made to expedite it.
§ Mr. STEPHENCannot the right hon. Gentleman promise us a statement before we rise?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI cannot give a definite promise.
§ Mr. BUCHANANI beg to give notice that I shall raise the question on the first available opportunity.