HC Deb 05 March 1942 vol 378 cc786-7
22. Mr. T. Smith

asked the President of the Board of Education what progress is being made with regard to the provision of nursery schools in the West Riding of Yorkshire?

Mr. Butler

I understand that 56 wartime nurseries have been approved and 29 additional nurseries are likely to be approved shortly in the West Riding of Yorkshire. Thirty new nursery classes have been opened in the same area since November last, and 80 more are expected to open before the end of this month. The above are the alternatives in wartime to nursery schools, with which it is not possible to proceed at present.

Mr. Smith

Is the President of the Board of Education satisfied that every effort is being made to provide the right type of persons to staff these schools, which is an important factor?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir. The local education authorities are running Child Care Reserve Courses.

Sir Joseph Lamb

Does my right hon. Friend refer to nurses? Are they State-registered nurses?

Mr. Butler

The staff for war-time nurseries mainly come from the source I have just indicated.