HC Deb 05 July 1951 vol 489 c2477
19. Sir Ian Fraser

asked the Minister of Education whether he will give details of the capital programme for education in 1951 and 1952; and of the extent of the proposed reduction in university building.

Mr. Hardman

On the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave the hon. Members for Devizes (Mr. Hollis) and the hon. and gallant Member for Horn-castle (Commander Maitland) on 28th June. The second part of the Question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Sir I. Fraser

Could the Minister state whether there will be a reduction in this building programme or not?

Mr. Hardman

The figure I have already given to the House for the investment programme for education for 1950 is £45.3 million; that was the actual expenditure. The expenditure approved for 1951 is £53 million and, for 1952, £57.5 million. There is no question of a cut in certain parts of the programme. The programme will be increased, but it will not be increased as fast as we had hoped some months ago.

Sir I. Fraser

Was not the Chancellor's announcement made since these figures were approved?

Mr. Hardman

No, Sir. These are the actual figures which have been approved for 1951 and 1952.