HC Deb 06 February 1947 vol 432 cc1949-50
42. Mr. George Wallace

asked the Minister of Education how many schools blacklisted by her Department over 20 years ago were in use in 1946.

Mr. Hardman

The number of buildings on the 1925 black list which are still in use for school purposes is 663. This list is, of course, now out of date and local education authorities have been carrying out a fresh survey of school premises in connection with the preparation of their development plans.

Mr. Wallace

Is my hon. Friend aware that the figures given are evidence of the serious neglect by previous Administrations, and also that it makes it extremely difficult for the present Administration to give these children a decent standard of education and accommodation?

Mr. Hardman

In considering these figures it is important to remember that there have been seven years of war and the effects of war on the difficulties of building, but at the same time my Department is in no way satisfied with the figures which have been presented this afternoon.

Mr. Alpass

Is it not a fact that a very large majority of these schools are on the black list and have been on the black list for many years, and that a large proportion of them are voluntary schools?

Mr. Hardman

And, of course, schools which were allowed to be used and rooms put into use for the teaching of children during the time when Members opposite were in charge of education.