§ 41. Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is now the 1806 position with regard to the school at Ardrishaig; and whether, in view of the fact that Ardrishaig is a reception area, he will take steps to restore the status of that school, which has a record second to none in Argyll?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)I understand that Ardrishaig School, since its re-opening after the summer vacation, has been conducted as a primary school only, and that Loch-gilphead School two miles away is now the centre for secondary education in the district. The county council approved this arrangement by a large majority, and I am satisfied that the scheme makes the most suitable provision for education in the area. Adequate arrangements have been made for the instruction in Loch-gilphead School of all secondary pupils transferred to the district under the Government evacuation scheme.
§ Mr. KirkwoodIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this is a very mountainous country and that two miles in the Highlands of Scotland is something to be considered when we are faced with the winter?
§ Mr. ColvilleThe hon. Member, who knows the district, knows that these two miles are on the level.
§ Mr. KirkwoodIs it not true that the road is level, but that it is surrounded by great, high mountains, where not only are there very severe climatic conditions, but several times there have been landslides? [Interruption] This is something that I am interested in, and I want to know what the Secretary of State is going to do in the matter.
§ Mr. ColvilleA bus is being provided to take these children to school, and I am satisfied that there is now better opportunity for the education of these children than before.