HC Deb 29 November 1951 vol 494 cc1698-9
20. Mr. Hylton-Foster

asked the Minister of Education if she will so revise Addendum 1 to Circular 210 issued by her Department as to allow to local education authorities within the existing limits of expenditure a wider discretion in the making of grants for expenses in respect of distinctive school clothing for boys.

Miss Horsbrugh

I am prepared to leave authorities wider discretion in the choice of distinctive school clothing, though I shall expect them to exercise the most rigid economy at the present time. I propose shortly to issue further guidance in the matter.

Mr. Hylton-Foster

Does the right hon. Lady recognise how pleased many parents will be with her answer, particularly those who are unable to take the view that little boys can be quite as spiteful as little girls about an absence of distinctive clothing?

21. Mr. Tudor Watkins

asked the Minister of Education if she will give the names of the education committees in Wales who have not adopted the provisions of Section 5 of the Education (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1948, enabling parents to receive grants for children needing clothing to attend school.

Miss Horsbrugh

Local education authorities are not required to inform me of any arrangements they may make to assist with the provision of children's clothing, and I regret therefore that I am unable to give the information asked for.

Mr. Watkins

Does the right hon. Lady realise that the object of my Question was to ask her to make inquiries of the local education authorities, particularly as there is a Joint Education Committee for Wales at present?

Miss Horsbrugh

This is something that we must leave to the local authorities, because it is their responsibility. I am very much against taking responsibility away from the local authorities, and I am sure many right hon. and hon. Members will agree with me.

Mr. Watkins

On a point of order. As a Member of Parliament I am surely entitled to make an inquiry of the Minister, and, as the Minister is unable to get the information for a Member of Parliament, I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at an early date.