§ 38. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Education whether he will send a circular to local authorities recommending that where practicable a children's garden plot should be instituted in parks near their schools and the children given gardening tuition and instruction in order to increase the knowledge of children in the growing of trees and plants, give them pride in their parks and influence them away from vandalism.
§ Mr. TomlinsonI am anxious to do all I can to encourage an interest among children in gardening and nature study. Owing to the great demand on the public parks for games and recreational facilities, and the varying circumstances of different localities, I do not think that the issue of a general circular to local authorities would be appropriate. I am sure, however, that I can rely on local education and school authorities to make the best arrangements they can locally for encouraging this activity.