§ 30. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Education if he is aware that Buckingham Gate School, Westminster, is being let for a Fascist meeting on 24th July, although a similar meeting on 7th February last led to a defacement of the school; and whether he will issue a general directive that school halls shall not be used for such purposes.
§ Mr. TomlinsonThe answer to the first part of the Question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, the letting of county school premises outside school hours is within the discretion of the local education authority.
§ Mr. HyndAs this evil is likely to spread throughout the country, is it not time that the Minister issued some general directions, particularly in view of the experience of this school last time a Fascist meeting was held there.
§ Mr. TomlinsonNo, Sir. I do not think the Minister is in a position to issue a direction regarding matters over which the local authority has discretion.