§ 2. Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what proposals she has for the expansion of nursery education.
§ 7. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what proposals she has for more nursery school provision.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Education and Science (Mr. William van Straubenzee)My right hon. Friend is aware of the need for more provision for under-fives and this will be considered together with other claims on resources for education and the other social services. Progress under the urban programme will continue in deprived areas.
§ Mrs. ShortCan the hon. Gentleman say what sort of increase is likely with the urban aid programme? In view of the fact that his Department is rather keen on withdrawing circulars and issuing new ones, is he now prepared to withdraw circular 8/60 and to allow local authorities freedom to set up nursery classes where they have the resources and teachers, because many are anxious to exercise this freedom?
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeThe hon. Member will know that over 10,000 places have been approved in the first two phases of the urban aid programme. It would be premature to announce any withdrawal of the circular.
§ Mr. Edward ShortWould the hon. Gentleman not be more forthcoming? The Tory manifesto said:
We recognise the need for expansion of nursery education.By how much is it to be expanded, where and when?
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeThe right hon. Gentleman will see as the programme develops.