HC Deb 19 February 1959 vol 600 cc538-9
43. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Education what proposals and schemes for schools in Newcastle-under-Lyme he has under consideration in his Department which could be quickly started; and if, in view of the unemployment in the area, he will give them urgent attention.

Sir E. Boyle

My right hon. Friend has authorised three projects for starting in 1959–60. No action on these rests with him at present. As soon as plans are submitted for his approval, he will give all possible help towards an early start.

Mr. Swingler

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that that does not answer my Question and merely deals with the current programme? Is not it a fact that in the Ministry there are many proposals, which have been turned down or deferred in previous years, that could now be brought into operation in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where there is more than 5 per cent. unemployment and where the labour and materials are available? Why does not the Ministry now give its approval?

Sir E. Boyle

There are several sides to this matter. Of the three projects to which I have referred, my right hon. Friend's Department has agreed to sketch plans for the first, it has not received sketch plans for the second, and I am told that the local education authority is at the moment revising its earlier plans for the third. If the hon. Member has any particular project to which he wishes to draw my attention, I should, of course, be glad to hear from him.