§ 22. Miss Herbisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many classes are above the number laid down in the code in primary, junior secondary and senior secondary schools in Scotland.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonThe latest available figures of oversize classes in the whole of Scotland relate to January, 1956. At that date there were 1,286 oversize classes in primary departments, 725 in the first three years of secondary departments and 83 in the fourth and subsequent years.
§ Miss HerbisonDoes the Minister tell us that the latest figures are for January, 1956? Since this is a most serious matter, 955 surely the Secretary of State ought to see that figures much more relevant than those of over a year ago are provided for hon. Members on both sides of the House.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonIt is difficult to get in figures from all parts of the country, but I take note of what the hon. Lady said.
§ 23. Miss Herbisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many classes are above the number laid down in the code in Lanarkshire and Glasgow, giving separate figures for primary, junior secondary and senior secondary schools.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonThe latest available figures of oversize classes in primary departments, in the first three years of secondary departments and in the fourth and subsequent years of secondary departments relate to the middle of January, 1957, for Lanarkshire and to the beginning of session 1956–57 for Glasgow. The figures for Lanarkshire are 266, 159 and six and for Glasgow, 415, 146 and thirty-eight.
§ Miss HerbisonSince the Minister is able to give later figures for these two places, it seems to me that he could have obtained later figures in answer to Question No. 22. Do not these figures suggest that steps should be taken by the Secretary of State to ensure that these numbers are decreased?
§ Mr. MacphersonAs I have said, we have asked the Advisory Council to advise on the secondary side of the problem. We are taking all possible steps to reduce the number of oversize classes.