§ 27. Sir Percy Harrisasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education what prospect there is of the early reopening of the Royal College of Art; and whether he will come to an early decision on a matter that affects several hundred students who will be handicapped in obtaining appointments as art teachers if they do not secure the qualification of the Royal College of Art?
Mr. LindsayMy Noble Friend has sought the advice of the council of the college on the question of reopening and I hope the college will reopen in January.
§ Miss WilkinsonAs a matter of general policy with regard to university colleges, does the hon. Gentleman think that there is any vital necessity for students from 19 to 23 to be evacuated? Should they not take their risks like everybody else?
Mr. LindsayIt was the general policy that the University of London and the constituent colleges should be moved. The college mentioned in the question comes under the Board direct. It was not moved, and it will be opened in January.
§ Mr. Herbert MorrisonCan the hon. Gentleman give the House some assurance that the question of the return of the colleges of the University of London will be considered, because considerable difficulties are arising as a result of their removal?
Mr. LindsayAt the present moment we are trying to meet these difficulties, but the general policy of the Government, for which I am not immediately responsible, is that these colleges should not come back unless a new situation arises.