HC Deb 14 February 1963 vol 671 cc1470-1
22. Mr. C. Johnson

asked the Minister of Education what is delaying the completion of the new premises for the London Nautical School; and when he expects these alternative premises to be ready for occupation.

Mr. Chataway

This project has not been delayed. It is on the L.C.C.'s 1963–64 school building programme. The authority is going ahead with plans and expects the new premises to be ready in September, 1965.

Mr. Johnson

Does the Parliamentary Secretary regard this as satisfactory, since the building now being used was erected over 85 years ago and promises were given to the governing body that new premises would be provided in the past 10 years? During that period new nautical schools have been provided at Southampton, Cardiff, South Shields, Plymouth and many other places. Why should London lag so far behind?

Mr. Chataway

I have said that the project has already been authorised, and I understand that the London County Council is making as great haste with it as it can.

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