§ 4. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can make a report upon the evacuation of children and other classes in Scotland?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)The Government's scheme for the evacuation of school children and younger children with their mothers was carried out in Scotland between 1st and 3rd September. After the children had gone expectant mothers and blind persons were evacuated, and in all about 175,000 persons have been transferred to the reception areas. I am glad to say that the scheme in general has worked smoothly and I should like to pay a tribute to the local authorities of both the sending and receiving areas, the transport authorities and all the voluntary workers and individual householders to whom is due the success of the arrangements for the assembly, transport and reception of the evacuated persons.
Mr. StewartIs the Secretary of State satisfied on two important points: first, that all householders in the reception areas are doing their duty and playing fair by their neighbours in this matter; and, secondly, that all the necessary public services in the reception areas are, in fact, available?
§ Mr. ColvilleGenerally, I am glad to say that the scheme is working smoothly. There are, of course, local difficulties which I am investigating and dealing 565 with, but I may say without qualification that the general effect of the scheme has been good.
Mr. J. J. DavidsonCan the Secretary of State say whether any local authority committees have been set up whereby representations can be made by the children in the schools or their parents in regard to conditions?
§ Mr. ColvilleObviously that would be to the locality and not to the centre, and work of that sort is going on in many localities.
Mr. DavidsonWill any such representations be made to the local authorities in the area in which the children are resident?
§ Mr. ColvilleYes, Sir.