§ 42. Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many new school places will have to be provided to meet the requirements of the higher school-leaving age; and whether he is satisfied that the present building programme is adequate for that purpose.
§ Mr. RossPrecise figures for new places needed will not be available until education authorities have completed their review of requirements. The present building programme will be increased to cover the essential additional accommo- 2094 dation for the raising of the school-leaving age.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithIs the Secretary of State aware that the Government plans for extending comprehensive education in Scotland put a further strain on the school building programme, particularly in the rural areas? Can he further say whether any school building in Scotland has been either restricted or held back as a result of the Government's economic measures?