§ 32. Mr. Dayasked the Home Secretary the number of children that were committed to approved schools for the 12 months ended to the last convenient date under the Children and Young Persons Act, 1933; whether the accommodation of the various approved schools is sufficient to meet the demand; and what steps have been taken by the local authorities or the Government to see that all such schools have an authorised accommodation, fixed at a maximum consistent with all reasonable requirements as to health, education, and occupation?
§ Sir J. SimonThe number of children and young persons admitted to approved schools in England and Wales under 1055 approved school orders during 1936 was 3,758. There is a need for additional approved school accommodation, which is being met by the provision of schools by local authorities and voluntary bodies. Seven such schools have been approved since March last and two more will be opened on 1st February. The certificate of approval issued to the managers, after consideration of all the circumstances, fixes the maximum accommodation for the school.
§ Mr. DayCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the shortage in the accommodation of approved schools has caused congestion in the remand homes?
§ Sir J. SimonI should suppose that if there were a shortage of the one there would be some overcrowding in the other, but, as the hon. Member will see, the numbers are being increased.