§ 27. Dr. Kingasked the Minister of Education why the school building programme for 1963–64 has not yet been announced; and when that programme will be announced to local education authorities.
§ Sir D. EcclesThis programme is part of the public sector capital expenditure which is under review. I hope to make an announcement about school building shortly.
§ Dr. KingWill the Minister treat this as a matter of urgency? Is he aware that the Chief Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster-General in talking to the House on Tuesday told hon. Members that he wanted local authorities to think in terms of five-year plans of capital expenditure and that the future school building programme is about the most important item in that capital expenditure? Will he do what he can to speed up letting local authorities know?
§ Sir D. EcclesThat is a matter on which I hope to make a decision shortly.