HC Deb 20 February 1958 vol 582 cc1366-7
3. Mr. Vane

asked the Minister of Education what is the approximate average annual cost of books per pupil in primary and secondary schools, respectively.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

About 10s. and 24s.

Mr. Vane

Will my right hon. Friend see what he can do to ensure that there is no undue economy on the provision of books? When considering pressure for buildings and for more teachers' salaries, transport, and so on, will he not forget that the expenditure on books is one of the most important contributions to education, and will he ensure that there is not unreasonable economy in that provision?

Mr. Lloyd

I would agree with my hon. Friend in that, but the general principle, even in this sphere, is value for money.

Dr. King

Is the Minister aware that there never was a time in the history of the country when so many excellent school books were produced, and yet most of them are out of the range of the teachers because no local authority in the country is spending enough on books for schools?

Mr. Lloyd

I take note of what the hon. Member says.