HC Deb 13 July 1950 vol 477 cc1530-1
25 Mr. Morley

asked the Minister of Education if he is satisfied that no child between the ages of five and six is now being excluded from school owing to lack of accommodation.

Mr. Tomlinson

I have no information as to the number of children between the ages of five and six now excluded from school owing to lack of accommodation, but it is estimated that just over 91 per cent. of the five year old age-group were in maintained primary schools in January, 1950, this being a higher percentage than in any other post-war year.

Mr. Morley

Is it not a fact that there is not sufficient accommodation at Reigate, Muswell Hill, Hackney and Holley, Surrey, to admit all infants when they reach the age of five, and will my right hon. Friend assist these areas?

Mr. Tomlinson

If my hon. Friend will send me that information, it will help us in making inquiries in those areas. I would point out to him that there are occasions on which, after a school has opened, facilities are available for children excluded at the beginning of the session.