HC Deb 11 December 1941 vol 376 cc1664-5
38. Mr. Wakefield

asked the President of the Board of Education whether the whole of the expense incurred in the erection of temporary schools due to war conditions is being borne from Government grant, or is a proportion to be borne by the local authorities?

Mr. Butler

I assume that my hon. Friend refers to the erection of temporary school accommodation necessitated by the movements of married workers. The cost of the provision of such accommodation is borne by the local education authority and the Board in such proportions as are prescribed in the appropriate grant regulations.

Mr. Wakefield

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that it is right that local authorities should bear a proportion of this expense, which is due entirely to the war and to the compulsory movement of people? Is it not right that this should be borne by the National Exchequer?

Mr. Butler

The arrangement is in accordance with the present Education Act.

Sir Percy Hurd

Is my right hon. Friend in communication with the Chancellor on the point? It is arousing the greatest interest and disquiet in the country.

Mr. Butler

I am in touch with my right hon. Friend. I will certainly look into the matter.