HC Deb 19 March 1940 vol 358 cc1794-5
31. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland for what purposes the higher-grade school at Lochgilphead is at present appropriated; whether he is aware that classes are being conducted there for the teaching of German by an enemy alien, and that such is taking place without the whole of the local school management committee being consulted; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?

Mr. Colville

The higher-grade school at Lochgilphead is being used for its normal educational purposes and has not been appropriated for other uses. I am informed that an Austrian refugee has been allowed the use of one of the rooms in the school for the purpose of holding a class in German one evening a week. The grant of the use of school premises for a private purpose such as this is a matter within the discretion of the education authority.

Mr. Gibson

Has the right hon. Gentleman found out whether the local school management committee has been consulted?

Mr. Colville

I understand that that really is a matter for the education authority itself.