§ 10. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieuasked the Minister of Education how many weekly boarding places are at present offered by State secondary weekly boarding schools.
§ Sir D. EcclesThere are nearly 9,600 boarding places in maintained secondary schools in England and Wales. I cannot say how many of the pupils concerned return home at weekends.
§ Mr. MallalieuWill the Minister say what is the approximate cost of one of these places, and how much a parent has to contribute to that cost?
§ Sir D. EcclesNot without notice. Indeed, the places are rather different. Some are in hostels, and in other cases arrangements are made for pupils to live with families.
§ 11. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieuasked the Minister of Education which local authorities have submitted plans to him for the purchase, and conversion into secondary weekly boarding schools, of large country houses now on the market in their areas.
§ Sir D. EcclesI do not know of any recent proposals.
§ Mr. MallalieuIn that case, will the right hon. Gentleman consider sending a circular to local authorities suggesting that they might prepare plans along these lines?
§ Sir D. EcclesI am very ready to look at any proposal which they may submit to me.