HC Deb 23 June 1971 vol 819 c1418
28. Mr. James Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what reply he has sent to the Lanarkshire County Council's request to carry out the school building programme for 1973–74; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Edward Taylor

None as yet. My right hon. Friend expects fairly soon to let education authorities know their investment allocations for school building to start in 1973–74.

Mr. Hamilton

Bearing in mind what the Secretary of State has said about stimulating the economy, does the hon. Gentleman agree that this would be a sign of good faith not only to the local authorities but to the people of Scotland and would serve two purposes: first, to give the unemployed jobs building the schools; and, secondly, to give to the local authorities some confidence that the Government intend to stand by what they say?

Mr. Taylor

I accept the importance of an expanding school-building programme. We have already announced an expansion of the primary building programme. The hon. Gentleman can be sure that we shall do all that we can to get the best programme possible.