HC Deb 27 January 1942 vol 377 cc533-4
2. Mr. Kenneth Lindsay

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many day nurseries now exist in Scotland?

Mr. Johnston

The number of day nurseries in Scotland is 27. Proposals for an additional 46, to meet war-time needs, have been approved, and local authorities have under consideration proposals covering about 40 more. In addition to informal guardianship arrangements, made through the churches and other organisations, there are also, associated with Child Welfare Schemes, 26 toddlers' playgrounds, play centres, etc., and the facilities in.10 of these are being extended.

Mr. Lindsay

The fact remains that there are only 27 now, and what does the right hon. Gentleman propose to do in order to increase that number?

Mr. Johnston

There are only certain areas, as the hon. Gentleman knows, where it is feasible or practicable to set up nurseries, but in these particular areas we are bringing every kind of pressure to bear upon the local authorities.

4. Mr. Lindsay

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland which is the responsible department in Scotland for providing day nurseries?

Mr. Johnston

The provision of day nurseries in Scotland is undertaken by county councils and town councils of large burghs. I myself am the Minister concerned, and the subject is dealt with by the Department of Health for Scotland in close co-operation with the Scottish Education Department.

Mr. Lindsay

I know that the right hon. Gentleman appreciates how slowly it is going, but could he not put one person in charge; and is he aware that the local education authorities say that they are responsible for staffing and that the consequence is it is very difficult to get any speeding up in the local authorities?

Mr. Johnston

As this is one of the reasons advanced by the hon. Gentleman for the delay in these matters, I will certainly consider the point.

Mr. Kirkwood

Will the Secretary of State give every encouragement in Scotland to day nursery schools?

Mr. Johnston

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Leach

Is not the responsibility for neglect in this direction 99 per cent. that of the local authorities themselves?

Forward to