Direct Grant Schools

HC Deb 08 November 1945 vol 415 cc1428-9

9. Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Education if she will give the numbers of direct grant schools on 1st January, 1945, and at the present time; and how many applications for direct grant status have still to be determined.

Miss Wilkinson

The number of direct grant grammar schools on 1st January, 1945, was 231. At present, 86 schools have been so recognised and 102 applications have still to be determined.

Mr. Lipson

In view of the very large sums of public money involved in these grants to schools, will the right hon. Lady say what measure of control her Ministry exercises over them?

Miss Wilkinson

Quite a considerable measure of control, by inspection.

Mr. R. A. Butler

Would the right hon. Lady inform the House at the earliest opportunity of the terms of availability of the direct grant to these schools? As the Minister knows, the Opposition desire to raise this matter at the earliest possible moment.

Miss Wilkinson

I shall be glad, on the occasion to which the right hon. Gentleman refers, to deal with it as extensively as I can.