§ 2. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many schools under his control have swimming pools, indicating their dimensions, location, and which schools they are; how many, and which, of his schools have no facilities for swimming; and what steps he has taken, is taking or plans to take, to provide swimming facilities in all such schools.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Niall Macpherson)There are 30 schools administered by Scottish education authorities which have swimming baths, and I am sending details of them to the hon. and learned Member. In addition, 13 schools which are either being built or at the planning stage are to have baths. Education authorities are well aware of the importance of teaching pupils to swim. Public baths are used where available.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that the swimming teachers' organisation and other relevant organisations are anxious to start a national campaign with a view to encouraging the art and pleasure of swimming? Will the Minister do what he can to encourage these organisations in that laudable aim?
§ Mr. MacphersonI know the excellent example that the hon. and learned Gentleman gives by his own matutinal efforts, and I am quite certain that my right hon. Friend will be glad to look into the matter to see how far he can give encouragement to the provision of swimming facilities.