HC Deb 28 February 1963 vol 672 cc1422-4
3. Mr. W. T. Rodgers

asked the Minister of Education whether he is aware of the success of play-groups for under-fives established under the auspices of the Save the Children Fund; and if he will take steps to establish such play-groups as an educational experiment.

15. Mrs. Butler

asked the Minister of Education what arrangements he is making for the inspection of private nursery schools and nursery groups.

Sir E. Boyle

My powers do not extend to private nursery establishments, which are not schools as defined in the Education Acts.

Mr. Rodgers

I understand that, but will the right hon. Gentleman not agree that the admirable initiative taken by the Save the Children Fund is something to be encouraged? Is it not within his power to draw the attention of local authorities to the success of play groups established by the Fund, bearing in mind his answers to the previous Question and the fact that progress with nursery education in the formal sense appears to be unlikely within the next few years?

Sir E. Boyle

I will certainly bear in mind what the hon. Member has said. Proprietors of private nursery schools can apply for recognition by my Department, and if they do I arrange for them to be inspected.

Mrs. Butler

Is the Minister aware that the number of private schools and play groups is growing considerably to meet the increased need and the lamentable lack of provision by his Department? Is it not essential that the right hon. Gentleman should institute a proper system of inspection of the schools so that they can reach and maintain high standards, in addition to the need for them to satisfy medical officers of health that they are in suitable premises?

Sir E. Boyle

I am sure the hon. Lady is aware that the responsibility of dealing with the registration of these establishments under the Nurseries and Child Minders' Regulation Act, 1948, rests with local authorities.

Mr. Willey

Will the right hon. Gentleman seriously consider what encouragement he can give to such bodies as the Save the Children Fund and the Free School Play-Grounds Association, and will he also consider withdrawing Circular 8/60 to see whether he can allow building in exceptional cases? Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire into the conditions of children under 5 in heavily populated urban areas as there is possibly a major social scandal here that has not been revealed?

Sir E. Boyle

I will bear in mind all the points raised this afternoon, and particularly the first point which the hon. Member for Sunderland, North (Mr. Willey) raised in his supplementary question. As to the general question of nursery education. I do not think that the time has come for me to withdraw that circular, although I am sure that the authorities will notice the very limited concession I have announced this afternoon in connection with the all-important problem of teacher supply.