HC Deb 15 June 1967 vol 748 cc751-2
10. Mr. Cordle

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the number of swimming baths provided in colleges of education; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

At a time when resources are inevitably limited, our particular concern must be that the 25 colleges which train intending specialist teachers of physical education should have adequate facilities for swimming, either in the form of college baths or through the part-time use of other baths that are reasonably accessible. At present, 11 of these colleges have their own swimming baths.

Mr. Cordle

But it remains the fact that only 14 out of the 160 colleges have their own pool. In view of the large number of children being drowned—157 between the ages of 6 and 15 in 1965—does not the hon. Gentleman accept that our main aim must be to have a growing number of teachers qualified in swimming, canoeing and sailing?

Mr. Roberts

We recognise the advantage of having teachers who can teach swimming. I accept, also, that it would be useful if those with a special interest in swimming learned how to teach it. But capital investment resources must for the present be concentrated on projects designed to assist colleges to expand their student numbers in order to make more productive use of existing teaching facilities.

Mr. Murray

If there has to be some priority in the provision of swimming baths, ought it not to be directed to the primary schools rather than to colleges of education?

Mr. Roberts

I am sure that my right hon. Friend has noted that point.