§ 29. Mr. Moyleasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she will increase the cost limits imposed by her Department on school building in the Inner London Education Authority area.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeNo, Sir. The cost limits for school building in England and Wales have only recently been raised by 13 per cent.
§ Mr. MoyleDoes the hon. Gentleman agree that school building prices are rising more rapidly in London than in other parts of the country, to the point where they are the highest in the country, and that his Department's determination to hold to the rigid cost yardsticks will lead to a sharp deterioration in the future of school building in London unless the action suggested in the Question is taken?
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeI am not sure whether the hon. Gentleman knows—and I offer this information genuinely to be of assistance—that where there are special problems in London—for example, of special site difficulties—ad hoc allowances can be made.