HC Deb 01 December 1949 vol 470 cc1301-2
21. Mr. Shurmer

asked the Minister of Education if he is aware that the only two nursery schools in the Sparkbrook district of Birmingham are being closed at the end of this year and that the Birmingham Education Committee have agreed to purchase a site in that area; and if, having approved the principle, he will give all possible assistance to the erection of the new school.

Mr. Tomlinson

There are no nursery schools in the Sparkbrook district of Birmingham, and I presume that my hon. Friend is referring to the nursery classes attached to the county primary schools at Golden Hillock Road and Stratford Road. The former closed in July last and the latter is to close on 22nd December. To facilitate the employment of married women in industry the Birmingham local education authority propose to provide a nursery school at Montgomery Street. This project is to be included in the 1950 building programme, and I have already approved the purchase of the site.

Sir P. Hannon

In view of the short time that will elapse before the hon. Member for Sparkbrook (Mr. Shurmer) ceases to represent this district, will the right hon. Gentleman do everything he possibly can to help him in the meantime?

Mr. Tomlinson

I am hoping that the new school will be open long before my hon. Friend ceases to represent this district.