HC Deb 22 March 1928 vol 215 cc542-3
13. Mr. DAY

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the fire which took place at a nursery school in the village of Salfords, near Horley, Surrey, on Saturday, 17th March, in which five sleeping children lost their lives; and will he consider the appointment of a Departmental Committee, with a view of introducing legislation to improve the standard of fire precautions and safeguards against fire at all private schools?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I have seen reports in the Press of this most unfortunate fire, but, much as I deplore the fatalities involved, I do not think that it is necessary to appoint another Committee. The Royal Commission on Fire Brigades and Fire Prevention considered the question of fire precautions in schools, and made recommendations in their Report. I will make further inquiry as to the circumstances of this particular school, but on my present information it would appear that it was not subject to control by any public authority.

Mr. DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the recommendations made by the Royal Commission have been carried out in all private schools?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think it would be almost impossible for me to say that with regard to all private schools.

Mr. DAY

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it is a matter of great importance that every precaution should be taken for the protection of children at private schools against fire, and will he not make the necessary investigation?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I do, of course, consider that that is a matter of great importance, but I am desirous of not multiplying too much the number of inspectors all over the country. Certain recommendations were made by the Royal Commission, and it is open, of course, to the proprietors of private schools to consult them, but, as to this particular case, I will see whether it was subject to any public authority who ought to have inspected the school, and will let the hon. Member have a further answer.

Mr. R. RICHARDSON

Has the right hon. Gentleman any power to deal with private schools, and to see that they are proper places for their purpose?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

No, I do not think I have; I think it is a matter for the local authority.