HC Deb 21 January 1958 vol 580 cc866-7
3. Mr. Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the promised provision of two technical colleges in Ayrshire.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Niall Macpherson)

Since my right hon. Friend's Answer to the hon. Member's Question of 30th July last discussions have continued between the authority and my Department on various points relating to the proposed colleges at Ayr and Kilmarnock, and a public inquiry has been held regarding the compulsory acquisition of the selected site for the Kilmarnock College. My right hon. Friend is awaiting the report of the Commissioner whom he appointed to hold this inquiry.

Mr. Ross

May we have more detailed information in relation to the date of starting Ayr College, and will the hon. Gentleman express an opinion with regard to the obstruction being met with as a result of the attitude of Lord Howard de Walden in respect of Kilmarnock College?

Mr. Macpherson

Discussions are going on about the accommodation of Kilmarnock College. So far as the accommodation in Ayr College is concerned, agreements have been reached and proposals will shortly be going before the appropriate committee of the education authority.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is it a fact that Lord Howard de Walden has been holding up a very necessary scheme for technical education and would the hon. Gentleman say what would happen to Lord Howard de Walden if he were in the Soviet Union?

Mr. Macpherson

The last part of the supplementary question appears to be hypothetical. With regard to the first part, I do not think that it arises, because discussions on the accommodation to be provided are still going on.