HC Deb 02 November 1939 vol 352 cc2101-2
58. Mr. Muff

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education how many children in England and Wales of school age are not in attendance at school; and the percentage in proportion to the school population?

Mr. Lindsay

I regret that in the absence of information as to the schools in neutral areas and reception areas which still remain closed, and as to the number of children who have returned from reception to evacuation areas, I cannot give the hon. Member the information he desires. He will, however, be aware from the reply which I gave to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Keighley (Mr. Lees-Smith) yesterday that steps are being taken to remedy the situation under which a large number of children are receiving no education.

Mr. Tomlinson

Can the hon. Member state to what age group the announcement made yesterday referred?

Mr. Lindsay

To as many age groups as accommodation will allow.

Mr. Tomlinson

Does that cover also those authorities who at the present time are excluded from taking children under seven in the areas where education is now proceeding?

Mr. Lindsay

Provided that there is accommodation, the announcement applies to children of any age between five and 14.

Commander Sir Archibald Southby

Is my hon. Friend aware that in some neutral areas many schools are still closed because there is no anti-air attack protection provided for the schools?

Mr. Lindsay

I am aware of that fact and I hope that the matter will speedily be removed.