§ 6. Mr. Piratinasked the Minister of Education if, in order to ensure that circular 97 on the provision of outside assistance in the school meals service is adequately implemented, he will ask the local education authorities to send regular reports of the progress being made in this matter.
§ Mr. TomlinsonAs I have already told the hon. Member, I have received no complaints which would justify burdening authorities with a special return on this matter.
§ Mr. PiratinIs the Minister aware that the other day he gave a reply on this matter to the effect that he was satisfied with the position merely because he had constantly brought it to the attention of the local education authorities? Really, that answer cannot be accepted. hence I put down this Question hoping that he would ask for regular information in order that he can be properly satisfied or otherwise with the position.
§ Mr. TomlinsonI am properly satisfied with the position. If complaints arise due to an inadequate service, then I am prepared to inquire into the matter. If the hon. Member has a case in which he thinks that something is wrong in this direction, I am prepared to inquire specifically into that case, but to ask 146 authorities to give me day-to-day reports in order to make sure of one thing would be a misuse of power.
§ Lieut.-Commander Gurney BraithwaiteWhere, pending adequate permanent arrangements, school meals are being provided by voluntary organizations, will the right hon. Gentleman use his good offices to see that they are properly reimbursed by the local authorities?
§ Mr. TomlinsonYes, if they are brought to my attention.
Vice-Admiral TaylorIs the Minister able to say whether a school meals service is available in Russia?