§ 59. Mr. Kenneth Lindsayasked the Minister of Education in respect of how many emergency training centres have decisions been made to acquire premises; how many principals have been appointed; and how many centres will be ready to open by 1st April, 1945.
§ The Minister of Education (Mr. Butler)The number of centres to be opened by April, 1945, will depend on the progress of the war and the number of students coming forward by that date. Negotiations are in progress for renting buildings in which the scheme can be launched, but we shall expect to take over buildings now occupied for war purposes as and when they can be released. Sixteen men and women have so far been selected as suitable for appointment as principals.
§ Mr. LindsayWhy is there any particular delay in acquiring premises at this moment?
§ Mr. ButlerFor the reason given in my answer, that most of them are occupied for war purposes. We are in negotiation for some premises immediately, and large premises at that, which are not in war 956 usage, and I hope to be able to tell the hon. Member more about that very shortly.