HC Deb 22 November 1951 vol 494 cc542-3
11. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Minister of Education whether she will make a statement on the anticipated effect of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's proposals on school building planned by Welsh education authorities and approved by her Department.

12. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Education what cuts are proposed in the school building programme for 1952.

19. Mr. J. Slater

asked the Minister of Education what effect the building cuts will have on the building of new schools in the county of Durham for the years 1952 and 1953.

Miss Horsbrugh

Until the Government have completed the review of capital expenditure in 1952, which was announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 7th November, no decision will be taken to alter the educational building programme.

Mr. Thomas

Does that answer mean the welcome assurance that the building plans for Wales will be allowed to go on unimpeded?

Miss Horsbrugh

I think it means exactly what I said—that no change will be made until we have the decision of the inquiry which was announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Mr. Thomas

Can the right hon. Lady say when that announcement is expected?

Miss Horsbrugh

As soon as the review has taken place.

Mr. Hamilton

Will the right hon. Lady give an assurance that when these proposals are discussed at the Cabinet meeting she will do all in her power to be there?

Miss Horsbrugh

I am glad to be able to tell the hon. Gentleman that it will need no effort on my part to be at the Cabinet meeting when these things are discussed, as I have already been informed that I may attend Cabinet meetings at any time that anything touching education is discussed.