§ 21. Mr. Hamiltonasked the Minister of Education how many schools there are on the housing estate at Farley Hill, Luton; what was the number of school places originally planned for in each school; how many children are now in actual attendance at each; and how many children aged five are likely to be refused admission to school next term.
§ Miss HorsbrughTwo, Sir. These were originally proposed for 240 infants and 320 juniors, respectively. They now have 504 infants and 593 juniors. The authority do not expect to have to refuse admission to any children next term.
§ Mr. HamiltonIn view of these figures, is it not obvious that there are at least two children for each place in 2134 the schools? How can the right hon. Lady possibly say that the authority is not anticipating refusing entry to children while there are more than twice the number of children than there are places provided? Have protests been received about this from the formerly very vocal hon. Gentleman the Member for Luton (Dr. Hill)?
§ Miss HorsbrughMany months ago I discussed the whole problem of education in Luton with hon. Members who are interested in Luton. The schools were started in 1949. At that time the numbers which would be involved were not fully estimated, but as some of the schools were started on rather a lavish scale, more children can be accommodated in them than was visualised in the actual design. At present, use has, unfortunately, to be made of the dining room and the hall, and one class is in a medical inspection room. The local authority have in mind schemes for additions which will deal with the overcrowding.