HC Deb 06 March 1968 vol 760 cc426-7
22. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the proposed capital building programme in primary school building for 1968; and what effect devaluation has had on the projects.

50. Miss Herbison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will give details of the changes that have been made in the Scottish school building programme as a result of recent cuts in public expenditure; and if he will make a statement.

76. Mr. David Steel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what effect the post-devaluation cuts in public spending have had on the current primary school building programme for Scotland.

Mr. Buchan

School building programmes are in course of adjustment to achieve the cuts announced in January and the details required are not available. My right hon. Friend sees no need at present to consider increasing the recently established school building cost units because of devaluation.

Mr. Eadie

The House will welcome the fact that very little impact has been made upon these proposals as a result of the devaluation cuts. Would my hon. Friend agree that there is a sound educational case for allocating a greater priority to primary education?

Mr. Buchan

Yes, there is a sound educational case for every expansion in education. My hon. Friend knows the background of the economic stringency within which priorities can be given.

Miss Herbison

My hon. Friend will be aware how important it is, particularly in primary schools, for children to be educated in modern schools. Would he ensure that as little as possible to make students suffer will be done in that sector?

Mr. Buchan

My right hon. Friend will be pleased to know that the value of starts in 1967–68 is still expected to reach the original £26 million target.

Mr. Steel

Is the Minister aware that I have had considerable correspondence with his hon. Friend about the long delays over the start of the building of a new primary school at Kelso? May I have an assurance that that start will not be further delayed by the post-devaluation cuts?

Mr. Buchan

I will draw the attention of my right hon. Friend to the hon. Member's Question.