HC Deb 21 February 1933 vol 274 cc1586-7
62. Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when it is proposed to place the facilities offered by the Marr College at the disposal of the students for whose interests it was built and equipped?

Mr. SKELTON

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply to his question of the 14th February. The Endowment Commissioners' proposals with reference to the scheme for the future government and management of the Marr Trust, including a provision for the opening of the Marr College within a specified period, are still engaging my right hon. Friend's attention and are receiving the anxious consideration which the magnitude of the endowment demands.

Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

Is it not the case that for several months this college has been fully equipped and that students are anxiously waiting to get into it; the masters engaged and the headmaster appointed. Cannot something be done?

Mr. SKELTON

I am aware of the situation, and I am also aware of the extreme importance of a satisfactory solution of this difficult question.

Mr. MAXTON

Surely some common-sense might be brought to bear on this matter. Is nothing being done to make it possible that the college shall be at the disposal of the young folk of the district while their elders are debating and discussing how it can be best controlled?

Mr. SKELTON

I am afraid that I' cannot add to my answer. The scheme ought not to be partially put into operation.

Mr. MAXTON

Is it quite impossible to open this school, which has now become completed for 12 months, and allow the masters, who have been appointed, to get to work, and take in the children who are anxious to get in? Is that beyond the power of the Scottish Office?

Mr. SKELTON

I think it is eminently undesirable in the circumstances.

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