§ 75. Mr. RANKINasked the President of the Board of Education what is the present approximate annual contribution made by way of Government grant to assist the provision of gymnasia, playing fields, and physical training organisers at elementary and secondary schools in Great Britain; and whether he is satisfied that progress in the provision of such necessary amenities is proceeding satisfactorily?
Mr. STANLEYIt is estimated that during the current financial year a grant of approximately £35,000 will be paid for the organisation of physical training in public elementary schools. The corresponding figure for secondary schools cannot be ascertained. As the expenditure on gymnasia and playing fields is not returned as a separate item in the local education authorities' accounts, I regret that I am unable to answer the hon. Member's question on this point. As regards the second part of the question, the Government are anxious to accelerate progress with the provision of facilities for physical training, and I am proposing to issue a circular to local education authorities on the matter in the near future.