HC Deb 19 July 1971 vol 821 cc1014-5
9. Mr. Barry Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Wales how many qualified architects dealing with school affairs are employed in the Welsh Office.

Mr. Peter Thomas

One senior architect.

Mr. Jones

Is this work force sufficient to meet the needs of the schools in Wales? What is the average length of time between the taking of a decision to modify or extend a school and undertaking the work?

Mr. Peter Thomas

It is considered sufficient at the moment. The senior architect not only maintains close liaison with professional colleagues in the Department of Education and Science but also has the support of a specialist team of Her Majesty's Inspectors who work closely with local authorities. I am afraid that, without notice, I cannot give an answer about the average length of time taken.