HC Deb 11 May 1936 vol 312 cc28-9
50. Mr. de ROTHSCHILD

asked the President of the Board of Education, whether he has considered representations submitted by county education authorities to the effect that the Exchequer contribution towards the cost of conveying children to school in cases where they reside more than three miles from the nearest school should be increased from 20 per cent. to 50 per cent.; and whether he has yet taken a decision in the matter?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

As announced in Circular 1444 of 6th January, 1936, it is proposed to increase the rate of grant payable on the conveyance of school children to elementary schools from 20 per cent. to 40 per cent. as from 1st April, 1937.

Mr. de ROTHSCHILD

Can the right hon. Gentleman see his way to bring this measure in earlier so that it will be ready for use next winter, instead of waiting until the spring?

Mr. STANLEY

All the circumstances were considered before the circular was issued, and I cannot undertake to reconsider it.

Mr. LEACH

Is it too late to ask the Minister to alter the percentage from 40 to 50?

Mr. STANLEY

Yes, Sir.

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