HC Deb 01 April 1971 vol 814 cc1660-1
17. Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what arrangements she is making to restore the cuts she has proposed in the Inner London Education Authority school building programme for 1971–72.

Mr. van Straubenzee

rose

Mr. Jenkins

On a point of order. Before the Minister replies, may I point out that it is almost certain that the year 1971–72 in my Question ought to read "1972–73".

Mr. van Straubenzee

This, of course, is of some importance because in respect of the year 1971–72 my right hon. Friend has made no such proposals. I must ask the hon. Member to get his figures right.

Mr. Jenkins

However it has come to read "1971–72" on the Order Paper, I do not wish to put the blame other than upon myself. However, I think it was obvious to the Minister that the Question must relate to 1972–73, because he well knows that he has just rejected and cut the I.L.E.A.'s request in this respect by three schools—two primary schools and the enlargement of a third—in South London. He further knows that these schools are essential and that his right hon. Friend has had interviews with the I.L.E.A. in which it pleaded with her to put these schools back. Therefore, the Minister should be in a position to answer the Question.

Mr. van Straubenzee

I am sorry to disappoint the hon. Gentleman, but he is wrong again. He is referring not to the school building programme for 1972–73, but to the minor works allocation, which is a very different matter.