HC Deb 22 January 1953 vol 510 cc402-3
41. Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Education how many village schools she has authorised for closure since she took office; in how many cases she has not given her approval, and what the figures are for Wales; and what public local inquiries have been held where closures have taken place.

Miss Horsbrugh

Eighty-five proposals have been made to me by local education authorities under Section 13 of the Act for the closure of rural primary schools. Of these, six related to schools which had in fact, closed some years ago, and seven to schools which were replaced simultaneously in the same village.

Of the remaining 72 proposals I approved 60, of which 48 were in England and 12 in Wales. and rejected 12, of which all were in England.

I have not found it necessary to hold any local inquiries.

Mr. Watkins

Can the right hon. Lady reconcile her statements against the closing of village schools with the action she is now taking?

Miss Horsbrugh

I most certainly can. It is well known by local authorities, and I have stated it publicly, that if the schools are in good condition we do not want a large number of them to be closed. In 28 of the 72 cases there were no objections from anybody. In other cases I have rejected the suggestion of the local education authority because I have thought it necessary to do so. I would rather leave the matter, as far as possible, to the local education authorities, but on occasions I feel I cannot agree with the proposals they make.

Mr. Watkins

If the right hon. Lady does not want to close village schools—and in forcing building of a new school three village schools in Radnorshire have been closed—why did she send an ultimatum to Radnorshire education authority, which meant closing them?

Miss Horsbrugh

This is a particular instance, and I would ask the hon. Gentleman to give me notice of this question, because although I know the case I should not like to answer without actually having the figures by me.

Mr. Watkins

I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.