HC Deb 12 March 1969 vol 779 cc1363-4
26. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the increase in full-time students in schools, technical colleges, universities and colleges of education since 1962 to the nearest available date.

Mr. Millan

The total increase in numbers between sessions 1961–62 and 1967–68 was 63,937 made up of 40,081 pupils and 23,856 full-time students; but, with permission, I will circulate further details in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Manuel

Is my hon. Friend aware that that reply will give immense satisfaction to many parents in Scotland—hon. Gentlemen opposite may scoff, but the election will show how wrong they are on this question?

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member must not interrupt his own supplementary question.

Mr. Manuel

Is my hon. Friend also aware that if the Opposition, during their 13 years, had taken up the work that they ought to have taken up in this regard, his job would have been much easier?

Mr. Millan

I am fully aware of all these facts.

Following are the details:

INCREASE IN NUMBERS OF PUPILS OR FULL-TIME STUDENTS BETWEEN SESSIONS 1961–62 AND 1967–68
Increase Reduction
Schools*
Primary 37,268
Secondary 2,813
Central Institutions† 779
Further Education Centres 7,395
Colleges of Education 4,728
Universities† 12,512
64,716 779
Net Increase 63,937

Notes:

* Pupils at education authority, grant-aided and independent schools (including special schools).

† The Royal College of Science and Technology, the Scottish College of Commerce and the Heriot-Watt College became universities during the period.