§ 33. Sir E. Boyleasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science on what date he proposes to end the six months postponement of the starting dates of educational capital projects other than schools, as announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 27th July; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CroslandNo decision has yet been taken by the Government on the future of the arrangements for deferring public expenditure which were announced by the Chancellor in his statement in the House on 27th July last. The working of the deferment arrangements is, however, kept under review in the light of the prospective economic situation.
§ Sir E. BoyleDoes not that Answer show a much more serious situation than that indicated by the Chancellor of the Exchequer last July? Has it not always been expected that, at the end of the six months, higher education projects should be started without control of starting dates? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in view of the nature of the reply he has just given, we shall wish to raise the general question on the Adjournment at the very first available opportunity?
§ Mr. CroslandI am delighted to hear that we shall have an opportunity for a serious debate on the matter instead of having partisan points made across the Floor of the House. The situation is being kept under review and if the improvement in the balance of payments, which the Government are already bringing about, continues, I hope that the review may lead to something successful.