HC Deb 27 May 1954 vol 528 cc587-9
12. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Education how many physically handicapped children are now receiving special educational facilities; how many should receive these, but are not doing so; and what consideration has been given to the need of increasing the facilities.

Miss Horsbrugh

In December, 1953, local education authorities in England and Wales were providing special educational treatment for 6,449 physically handicapped pupils accommodated in special schools (other than hospital schools), independent schools and boarding homes. Authorities were at the same date seeking special school places for 1,613 physically handicapped children. The facilities are being continuously increased.

Mr. Sorensen

Could the right hon. Lady indicate what those facilities are in view of the fact that there is this large number still without proper educational services?

Miss Horsbrugh

At present 700 places are being provided, or are shortly to be put in hand, which I think will at any rate go some way to meet this need.

18. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Minister of Education how many handicapped children in Warwickshire are still on the waiting list for entry into special schools compared with the figures for 1952 and 1953.

Miss Horsbrugh

The latest return from the local education authority shows that in December last 302 handicapped children were awaiting places in special schools. This compares with 230 in December, 1952, and 251 in December, 1951.

Mr. Johnson

Would the right hon. Lady agree that those figures are not too satisfactory? Can she tell us what plans she has for getting down these increasing numbers, particularly in regard to the unfortunate class of epileptic school children?

Miss Horsbrugh

I quite agree that the figures are not satisfactory and we want more places, but, out of the 302 children, 239 are educationally subnormal. Since the date of the last return, 40 places have been provided for the education of subnormal children and a further 100 places for those children will be provided in this year's school building programme.

Mr. Johnson

Is the right hon. Lady making any special effort for the unfortunate class I mentioned, epileptic children?

Miss Horsbrugh

Yes, but there are some cases where, if the illness is not very severe, it is recommended that they should not be put in special schools. We are looking into the matter and trying to get the best accommodation.