§ 44. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Minister of Education whether he is aware of the domestic unhappiness consequent upon the lack of sufficient schools, day and residential, for spastic children in the counties of Warwick, Worcester, and Stafford; and his intentions in the matter of building further accommodation.
§ Mr. VosperThe local education authorities of the counties and county boroughs concerned tell me that on 1st October last 43 spastic children were awaiting places in special schools, two in 2239 day schools and 41 in boarding schools. Schools in course of provision added to those already available should provide enough places for all the physically handicapped children, including spastics, in these areas.
§ Mr. JohnsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the figures he has just given me do not exactly tally with those given by the National Spastics Society, a highly responsible body? Is he aware that there is a great deal of family anxiety in the Midlands in connection with this matter? Perhaps he would be kind enough to see me afterwards to discuss the matter?
§ Mr. VosperThese figures have been obtained recently from local authorities. In the County of Warwick only two spastic children are not in schools at the moment. The other children are in schools in the county area.