§ 51 Mr. W. Wellsasked the Minister of Education (1) on what grounds her Department is rejecting applications for a 75 per cent. grant in respect of courses in architecture in technological institutions;
§ (2) on what grounds her Department is rejecting applications for a 75 per cent. grant in respect of courses in interior decoration in technological institutions;
§ (3) on what grounds her Department is rejecting applications for a 75 per cent. grant in respect of courses in dietetics in technological institutions.
§ The Minister of Education (Miss Florence Horsbrugh)The special rate of grant is intended to encourage the development of advanced courses in technology which will lead directly to an increase of industrial efficiency and productivity. I regret that I cannot regard the subjects mentioned by the hon. Member as satisfying these conditions.
§ Mr. WellsIn view of the importance of the design of buildings to industrial efficiency, is not this a wrong interpretation of the Minister's own directive? Secondly, in view of the national importance of the other two subjects mentioned, is not the whole regulation in need of redrafting and widening?
§ Miss HorsbrughAs the hon. Gentleman knows, the 60 per cent. grant is already being given, and I am not aware that the provision of courses for architects, interior decorators and such is inadequate. I understand that sufficient numbers are being trained for these professions.