§ 13. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he has taken during the last 12 months to encourage and develop swimming in schools under Government authority; and what plans he has for further action in this matter.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Education and Science (Mr. Denis Howell)There is much interest in swimming in the schools and we are making a small annual grant towards the administrative costs of the English Schools Swimming Association. In 1967, 19 swimming pools were completed in maintained schools, under the auspices of my Department. A further 16 are under construction this year.
In addition a number of pools have been provided by local authorities for general community purposes, including use by schoolchildren.
§ Mr. HughesI thank my hon. Friend for the constructive parts of that reply. Does he realise that, during the last year or two, there has been a great wave of interest in swimming as a means to health? Will he strike out in order to help in this respect?
§ Mr. HowellMy Department has no intention of being submerged by this wave. Indeed we intend to ride upon it to see that more swimming facilities are provided.
§ Sir Knox CunninghamCan the hon. Gentleman say what the cost has been?
§ Mr. HowellNot without notice.