§ 32. Sir H. Williamsasked the Minister of Labour what is the present cost of the National Institute of House-workers; and how much this works out per head of those trained.
§ Mr. WatkinsonDuring the year ended 31st March, 1952, the total expenditure of the Institute was about£170,000, of which approximately£90,000 was spent on training, the average cost being about£170 for persons of 18 and over, and£220 for younger girls, who receive a longer course. These figures include maintenance allowances.
In order to meet the pressing need for economy the Ministry's grant to the Institute is being reduced to an annual level of£60,000, of which only about one-fourth will be available for training. Figures of cost per head during the present period of running down and closure of centres would not be representative, but it is estimated that, after completion of re-organisation, the average cost will be approximately£155 for the shorter courses and£200 for the longer.
§ Sir H. WilliamsWhat is the money which is not spent on training being spent on?
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe rest of the money has been spent on the maintenance of these centres, which are now being reduced to one.