HC Deb 28 June 1951 vol 489 cc1573-5
38. Mr. Hollis

asked the Minister of Education whether he will make a statement on the proposed expenditure on education, as a result of the recent review of civil investment.

42. Commander Maitland

asked the Minister of Education what alterations will be necessary in the planned programme of capital investment in education in the light of the recent reductions in the national investment programme: and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hardman

The investment approved for education in 1951 is £53 million, and in 1952, £57.5 million. The programme to meet the increase in the school roll and for the movement of population to new housing estates and new towns will continue as planned. It will. however, not be possible to increase certain other parts of the programme at the rate previously contemplated.

Commander Maitland

Does the latter part of the reply mean that the Government are to hold back on developing technological education, which they will have to do in the very near future?

Mr. Hardman

The effect of the defence programme will be delay in increased provision for technical education, but as far as the projects approved for 1951–52 are concerned it should not affect the present programme.

Mr. Hollis

Are the figures and projects set out in the Education Report which we are expecting to receive very shortly?

Mr. Hardman

Yes, Sir.

Mr. G. Thomas

Would my hon. Friend place in the Library a list of those parts of the education service which are to be limited as a result of this statement?

Mr. Hardman

I can give the main headings immediately: technical education, which I have already mentioned; school meals service; special schools; minor improvements to existing schools.

Mr. Ralph Morley

In what way will the school meals service be restricted? Does my hon. Friend's answer mean that there will be an additional charge for school meals, or does it mean that the service of the meals will be restricted?

Mr. Hardman

That is an entirely different question.

Mr. W. T. Williams

Would my hon. Friend give more information about restrictions on special schools? Is he not aware that there are not enough special schools already, and that spastic children are having almost no education of any kind?

Mr. Hardman

There have been considerable increases in provision for special school children. I have simply suggested, in answer to a supplementary question, what are the main headings which will be affected by the defence programme.

Mr. G. Thomas

I do not know whether I am in order, since I did not ask the original Question, but if I am, I beg to give notice that in view of the nature of my hon. Friend's reply I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.