§ 39. Mr. Manuelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many new schools were completed in 1952; and on how many of these schools construction was actually commenced during the period of the present Government.
§ Mr. J. StuartTwenty-three new schools were completed in 1952, of which two were started during the period of office of the present Government.
§ Miss HerbisonCan the Secretary of State give us an assurance that the beginning of new buildings in 1952 is anywhere near adequate to the needs of Scotland.
§ Mr. StuartI was not asked that Question, but I would again say that we shall do our best in the prevailing circumstances to provide as many places as possible. We added about 7,000 places, by additions to, or extensions of, existing schools.
§ Mr. ManuelDoes the Secretary of State agree that a greater number was started under the previous Government, and is he aware that site acquisition and preparation of the number indicated were also started under the previous Government? Could he give some assurance to the House that site acquisition and preparation are being kept up to the high level reached under the previous Government, in view of the future educational needs of Scotland?
§ Mr. StuartI should explain to the hon. Gentleman that, while it is agreed that the great majority of new schools were started under the previous Government—his Question asks only about new schools—in addition, 7,000 places have been provided by extensions to existing schools.
§ Sir T. MooreIn any case, was not the term "under construction" used by the late Government to delude people into thinking that buildings would shortly be completed?