§ 43. Mr. McKayasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education if he is aware of the shortage of school accommodation for the Catholic children in the Forest Hall and Longbenton area; and if he will allow some form of temporary accommodation to be built to meet the need pending the erection of a new school.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education (Sir Edward Boyle)It is planned to start work on the building of a new Roman Catholic secondary school this year and of a new primary school next year. In these circumstances, my noble Friend would not feel justified in approving further temporary building at the existing Roman Catholic School. I am writing to the hon. Member to explain the position more fully.
§ Mr. McKayIs not the Minister aware that it is likely to be two years before these children get the accommodation? Is it not correct that in this case it is not a question of building anything because there is a new building already in existence which will be ready at Easter? Is he aware that if he cannot allow that building to be used temporarily, it would appear that Catholic people are not being treated in a fair and reasonable way? Will the hon. Gentleman consider the matter again?
§ Sir E. BoyleI know the interest taken in this matter by the hon. Member, and by his hon. Friend who represents one of the Newcastle divisions. I am writing to the hon. Member and dealing fully with the suggestion that the parish hall should be used temporarily for teaching purposes. I will try to explain the position as fully as I can.