HC Deb 08 July 1947 vol 439 c2027
42. Sir William Darling

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many school camps are conducted as Scottish National Camps Association, Limited; where they are located; and if he has any plans to relate them to agricultural training, nature study and seasonal agricultural operations in the future.

Mr. Westwood

School camps are conducted by the Scottish National Camps Association at West Linton in Peeblesshire, Gorebridge in Midlothian, Abington in Lanarkshire, and Aberfoyle and Meigle in Perthshire. When pupils are in residence their studies' are modified to take account of their surroundings, and advantage is taken of the opportunities for outdoor studies, which have included, as well as nature study, visits to farms, mills and the like and the observation of seasonal agricultural operations. Pupils have also taken an active part in the cultivation of the vegetable gardens at the camps. Further developments on these lines are contemplated, but as the camps are best suited for pupils under 12 years of age, the provision of agricultural training in any formal sense would not be appropriate.

Sir W. Darling

In view of the fact that some 50,000 will be required for the potato harvest in Scotland this year, would the right hon. Gentleman consider next year the organisation of these camps with a view to particular regional necessity?

Mr. Westwood

That would not be ruled out, but only children over 13 can be employed for potato lifting, in accordance with the recent Bill which has been passed by this House.