HC Deb 02 May 1950 vol 474 cc1568-9
44. Mr. W. Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps have been taken to remedy the conditions in Dr. Guthries' Boys' Junior School, Liberton, Midlothian.

Miss Herbison

Approval has been given to schemes designed to improve the accommodation and amenities and the variety of training at this school.

Mr. Ross

Is the hon. Lady aware of the serious state that this school was in about six months ago, as reported in a Committee of this House; that we found the buildings were entirely unsuitable and gloomy, the children poorly dressed, and the atmosphere oppressive; and that we thought the best use was not being made of public money? Will she consider closing the whole thing down?

Sir W. Darling

Is the hon. Lady aware that this school is located not in Midlothian but in the county and city of Edinburgh; and is she further aware that the management committee for some seven years have been recommending these improvements which she is now prepared to endorse?

Miss Herbison

In reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Kilmarnock (Mr. Ross), it is because we believed that matters in this school were serious that these steps have been taken.