§ 16 and 17. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education (1) how many children in the Stainforth area, near Doncaster, are being taught in temporary schools; how 1902 many such buildings are being used; and when permanent accommodation is likely to be provided;
(2) how many children of school age in the Stainforth area are not attending school owing to lack of accommodation?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Ramsbotham)There is considerable pressure on the school accommodation in the area referred to. My Noble Friend has no doubt that the local education authority is watching the situation closely, but he is asking them for more precise information, and will communicate with the hon. Member. Five temporary school buildings, providing accommodation for 1,020 children, are in use, and my Noble Friend understands that proposals for a new permanent school are now under consideration by the local education authority.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the hon. Gentleman aware that some of these temporary schools have been in existence for at least 20 years and that they are wholly unfit for the use of the children? Further, is he aware that there are 1,221 children with a playground of less than three-quarters of an acre, and does he not think that the time has arrived when a new school should be provided as soon as possible?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMThose considerations will be relevant in considering the local authority's proposal for a new school.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSAs the proposal for a new school has been held up since the Government came into office, does not the hon. Gentleman think that the time has arrived when economy ought not to deprive this district of a school when one is so urgently required?
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMI would point out to the hon. Member that the proposal for this new school has not yet been received by the Board?