HC Deb 04 February 1960 vol 616 cc1208-9
30. Mr. Grant-Ferris

asked the Minister of Education how many primary schools in Cheshire are still without a piped-water supply and a water-carriage system for the lavatories; by what date it is hoped that all may be so served; and whether he will consider making the local authority an increased minor capital allowance to expedite this work.

Sir D. Eccles

Two primary schools are without piped water; they will be connected as soon as water mains are available. Fifty-eight schools are without flush lavatories; the authority hopes to install a water-carriage system at most of them within the next two years. I cannot increase the authority's already substantial allocation for minor capital works in 1960–61.

Mr. Grant-Ferris

Does my right hon. Fiend realise that there are many people who think that the provision of proper sanitation is every bit as important as, if not more important than, other matters, including raising the school-leaving age?

Sir D. Eccles

I agree with my hon. Friend. In most of these cases the trouble is that the authorities are expecting sewerage facilities to be provided, and so they wait for main drainage before making the change.

Dr. King

Is the Minister aware that many rural authorities have made a great drive, as the result of the campaign to get rid of bad sanitation in rural schools which he initiated when he was formerly Minister of Education five years ago? Will the right hon. Gentleman put pressure on those authorities which have not completed such plans?

Sir D. Eccles

I shall be glad to see the last of earth closets.