§ LORD O'HAGANasked Her Majesty's Government:
What progress has been made with the urban aid proposals announced by the Home Secretary on July 22, 1968.
§ LORD STONHAMThe first two phases of the programme have been completed. In October, 1968, 34 local authorities were asked to propose expenditure mostly on nursery schools and classes, day nurseries, and children's homes. Approvals in principle up to a total of £3½ million were given in January, 1969. These will provide 191 new nursery classes, with 5,250 full-time894WA additional places (including 21 new nursery schools); 21 day nurseries, together with a number of extensions to existing nurseries; and 20 children's homes.
The second phase extended to all counties and county and London boroughs; and authorities were asked to make proposals over a much wider range of expenditure relevant to special social need. Approvals in principle up to a total of a further £4½ million were given on June 27. These include nursery schools and classes, providing a further 5,376 full-time nursery places; 600 new day nursery places; children's homes; family advice centres; community centres; and language teaching facilities for immigrants. Under this phase, aid given by local authorities to voluntary societies can qualify for grant, and some £150,000 has been allocated by way of aid to societies running voluntary play groups, and play group advisers.
The first and second phases both related to the period ending March 31, 1970. Planning for the next phase of the programme is now going on.
House adjourned at five minutes before nine o'clock.