31. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will state the numbers of municipal community centres completed, approved and started in each of the years 1966, 1965 and 1964; and if he will estimate the numbers of such projects which will be started in 1967.
§ Mr. MillanMy right hon. Friend's approval is required only for education authority centres and for centres provided by other local authorities which cost over £10,000.
In 1964, 15 such centres were approved in principle, nine were started and two were completed. The corresponding figures for 1965 were eight, six and seven and for 1966 three, six and four. Nine education authority projects are expected to start during 1967.
In addition, many new schools include community facilities.
Mr. TaylorWould the Minister agree that many of our newer housing schemes are just housing deserts without proper amenities? Is he not a little worried by this decline?
§ Mr. MillanI do not think that the figures are declining. There is one starting in Castlemilk in Glasgow this year which will interest the hon. Gentleman. This has to be taken in relation to the provision of other facilities, for example youth centres, for which there is now a programme of six in Glasgow.