HC Deb 02 November 1939 vol 352 c2101
57. Mr. E. J. Williams

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education whether he will authorise all education committees to complete all schools under construction and make provision for committees to obtain priorities in building materials?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education (Mr. Kenneth Lindsay)

My Noble Friend cannot undertake to give any such general authorisation as is suggested. I may, however, refer the hon. Member to Circular 1477 already issued by the Board which indicates that in cases where the works are well in hand, especially in reception areas where the buildings are likely to facilitate the education of an increased number of children, the Board would make every effort to facilitate their progress, and that, in particular, the Board would regard the completion of technical school buildings as important if, in addition to offering facilities which would meet the needs of the Service Departments, they provided training in the major industries which are of national importance at the present time. The question of priority presents special difficulties at the present time when demands on material and labour for war purposes are so acute.