HC Deb 16 May 1938 vol 336 cc34-5
69. Mr. Thurtle

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he has considered an appeal with over 37o signatures from ratepayers in the area of Tilford, Surrey, against the proposed new central elementary Church of England school at Tilford, to provide for the senior scholars of five parishes; whether an inquiry under Section 18 of the Education Act, 1921, is being held; and whether the request for a local public inquiry will be granted?

Mr. Lindsay

The Board have received an extensively signed appeal against the proposal to provide a new Church of England senior school at Tilford. In accordance with their practice they have given the proposers and the local education authority the opportunity of making observations on the appellants' representations. As soon as these are received the Board will consider the matter with all possible despatch, but my Noble Friend cannot at this stage anticipate the result of this consideration.

Mr. Thurtle

Can the hon. Member give an assurance that he will not allow the parsons of the district to fasten this school on the great majority of the ratepayers?

Mr. Lindsay

I would rather not anticipate the result of the inquiry.