§ Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take to meet the war emergency resulting in increased numbers of children of school age being congregated in certain areas and teachers being left without scholars in other areas; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?
§ Mr. ColvilleProvision has been made for the education of the additional children of school age by the Education Authorities in all reception areas in Scotland, and the children are now attending school. The necessary accommodation has been provided by extending the use of existing schools under the double shift system, by occupation of surplus school places, and in a few cases by the use of halls or other buildings. The additional teaching staff required has mainly been provided by the transfer of teachers from the sending areas. Arrangements are now being made for the reopening of schools for older scholars in the sending areas where approved shelter protection has been provided and there is no special degree of vulnerability. I am not yet in a position to make a statement regarding the opening of schools for the instruction of younger children in sending areas; meanwhile useful work is being done by teachers in giving instruction to small groups of children in their homes.