HC Deb 22 March 1955 vol 538 cc1865-6
15. Mr. Pryde

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of school children in the town of Penicuik, Midlothian, who are being taught in temporary premises.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

One primary class of 43 pupils is at present being taught in premises out with the school.

Mr. Pryde

I understand that two halls are being used in Penicuik. In view of that fact, would it not have been far better if the Government had concentrated upon a balanced building programme, instead of trying to build 300,000 houses when they know they have to patch up prefabricated houses built in 1945 in order to get another five years of life out of them?

Mr. Stewart

It is not my duty to talk about housing, but the hon. Member should know that work upon the extension of Penicuik junior secondary school is going ahead. It is hoped that the first part of the extension will be completed in time to be able to dispense with these halls next session.