HC Deb 22 December 1932 vol 273 cc1225-6
11. Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education the number of students receiving training at the Chester Training College; whether the college is self-sustaining; whether, in view of his intention to close the college, he will say what provisions have been, or are to be, made for the students at present in residence at, or approved for admission to, the college?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Ramsbotham)

The number of students now receiving training at the Chester Training College is 160. I understand that, on the basis of the present numbers, the income from grants, fees and other sources suffices to meet the expenditure. In the event of the proposal to close the college temporarily being carried out, every care will be taken to make such arrangements for the second year students as will involve the minimum interference with their course. Under the Regulations of the Board, no promises of admission for the year 1933 may be made before 1st March.

Mr. WHITE

Do I understand the hon. Gentleman to say that this arrangement is to be temporary?

Mr. RAMSBOTHAM

Yes, Sir, that is so.

Mr. MORGAN JONES

Is not this college a diocesan college, and does not the initiative, therefore, rest with the diocesan authorities?

Mr. RAMSBOTHAM

That is so. It is one of the colleges represented by the Board of Supervision.

Mr. BROCKLEBANK

Will my hon. Friend make it quite clear that this is only a temporary measure?

Mr. RAMSBOTHAM

That is so; it is only a temporary measure.

Mr. REMER

Is my hon. Friend aware that very large expenditure has recently been incurred on this college, and that that expenditure may possibly be wasted owing to the closing of the college?

Mr. RAMSBOTHAM

I have no information to that effect.