HC Deb 07 September 1939 vol 351 cc561-2
1. Sir Percy Harris

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Education how many children of school age are still in London; whether arrangements are being made for some kind of education for them in the schools; and whether it is proposed to give parents another opportunity to agree to the evacuation of their children at an early date?

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

I am not yet able to give the information asked for in the first part of the question. As regards the education of children remaining in London, the present position is that all schools in London and other evacuation areas remain closed for the time being. The question of making further arrangements for the evacuation of children is under consideration. It would be premature to give a more detailed answer at this moment, but hon. Members can rest assured that the whole matter is being actively considered.

Sir P. Harris

Does the Board realise how serious the position is in many parts of London with many children running about the streets with nothing to do at a time like this? Is it not important that something should be done quickly in the matter?

Mr. Lindsay

I have said that the matter is under active consideration at the moment, and I can assure the hon. Member that we are very much aware of the position.

Miss Wilkinson

Could not something be done in the way of an appeal to volun- tary committees in the villages to keep the children amused during the day? Simply nothing is being done, and they are running about the roads, which is most dangerous at the moment.

Mr. Lindsay

If the hon. Lady is referring to the reception areas I hope that by to-day or to-morrow, or, at any rate, by Monday, all the schools will be open.

Sir Herbert Williams

Is anything being done to evacuate those between the ages of 14 and 15?

Mr. Lindsay

I should like to have notice of that question. Generally speaking all school children attending elementary and secondary schools came within the scope of the evacuation scheme.

Sir H. Williams

The point is that the school age is due to be raised to 15 to-morrow, I think. What is to happen to those between the ages of 14 and 15?

Mr. Lindsay

Each of the cases must be treated on its merits.

Commander Sir Archibald Southby

Is it not the case that in most rural areas a committee to look after the welfare and amusement of the children has already been set up and is working satisfactorily?

Mr. Lindsay

I am aware that in the reception areas much good will is being shown towards the children.

Sir William Davison

Is the Minister aware that only a day or two ago in about a quarter of a mile I saw three picnic parties of children who were superintended by local people?