HC Deb 03 May 1955 vol 540 cc1494-5
20. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will consider setting up an annexe to Golspie Secondary School in Lairg and Rogart schools, each with one resident teacher, supported by visiting specialists from Golspie, Dornoch, or Helmsdale, thus saving a number of pupils having to travel to and from Golspie each day, or to live there in a hostel or other lodgings, and avoiding the absenteeism, with loss of education, which is liable to happen at present.

Mr. J. Stuart

This is primarily a matter for the Sutherland education authority, which, I understand, has called for a report on the existing arrangements for the provision of senior secondary education throughout the county. I shall be prepared to consider sympathetically any proposals it may make after consideration of the report.

Sir D. Robertson

Will the Secretary of State bear in mind that there is widespread discontent among the parents, who naturally want their children educated at home, as other people do, and who object to journeys of up to four hours a day by children going and coming between school and home?

Mr. Stuart

According to my information, there is dissatisfaction in a certain quarter but, with the exception of that quarter, to which no doubt my hon. Friend refers, the general body of parents have not complained about the arrangements. Of course, I will consider any suggestions for improvement.