§ 62 and 63. Mr. Spriggsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) if he is aware of the demand for places in the pre-school playgroups now operating; and whether he will take steps, by legislation or otherwise, to provide facilities and control of pre-school playgroups in England and Wales;
(2) how many local education authorities in England and Wales are now supporting pre-school playgroups; whether they are registered with the local authority or local education authority; and if he will seek power to bring them directly under the authority of the local education authority.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Education and Science (Mr. Edward Redhead)I am aware of the useful work which pre-school playgroups are doing for children below school age. Groups may need to be registered by the local health authority but do not come within the ambit of the local education authority. My right hon. Friend cannot reach any conclusion on the desirability of changing the law until he has received and studied the reports of the Central Advisory Councils for England and Wales.
§ Mr. SpriggsMay I ask my hon. Friend what other efforts are being made to get the information the Department requires before taking further action?
§ Mr. RedheadThis is being pursued by the advisory councils, whose reports we are awaiting.