§ 29. Mr. Dryden Brookasked the Minister of Education whether any census has been taken of the likely demand for furniture and other school equipment when the new age group has to be provided for; and whether any use is being made of the surplus equipment at the disposal of the Ministry of Supply.
§ Miss WilkinsonYes, Sir. I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of an inquiry which was addressed to local education authorities about school furniture required for the raising of the compulsory school age. Action is now being taken, in consultation with the other Departments concerned, to ensure that the furniture will be available when required. The possibility of making use of Government surplus stores has been explored and already purchases have been made by local education authorities and schools under the arrangements made by the Ministry of Education with the disposal Departments.