HC Deb 18 April 1961 vol 638 cc947-8
8. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the additional school accommodation and additional number of teachers which will be necessary in the Dunoon area, arising from the large number of American naval forces and their families now to be resident in the area.

Mr. Brooman-White

I understand from Argyllshire Education Authority that three or four additional primary classrooms and about six additional teachers will be required.

Mr. Manuel

The hon. Gentleman will know that there is a shortage of school accommodation in Scotland and an acute shortage of teachers. Does not he think that representations should be made to the American authorities pointing out that, as this is a purely American base, they ought to provide the accommodation and the teachers? Can he say what cost will fall on the local rates levied by Argyll County Council as a result of the provision to which he has referred?

Mr. Brooman-White

To date, we have received no representations from the local authority about this matter. The cost will range from about £10,000 a year, provided most of the children are fitted into existing schools, up to possibly £30,000 a year if the children are concentrated in one place and additional accommodation has to be provided.

Mr. Woodburn

Will the hon. Gentleman assure the Americans that, so long as these sailors are within the boundaries of Scotland, they and their children will receive the best Scottish hospitality as is our tradition?

Mr. Brooman-White

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that expression of view. I am sure that it is the wish of everyone in Scotland that our reputation for hospitality should not be tarnished.

Mr. Manuel

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the question of hospitality does not arise? What I am concerned about is the matter which was discussed in the Argyll County Council Education Committee, namely, the possibility of added cost falling on the rates. The introduction of the question of hospitality is a red herring and something that we all despise.

Mr. Brooman-White

We have to date received no representations from the local authority on this subject.