§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has as to the number of children in playgroups in England, Greater London, and in the London Borough of Ealing at the latest convenient date and in May 1979; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonCentral statistics relate to places in registered playgroups rather than children attending, and show:
Number of places in playgroups, registered with local authorities As at 31 March 1979 1981 England 362,279 364,778 Greater London 45,459 42,826 London borough of Ealing 1,550 1,625 The Department has encouraged the development and expansion of the playgroup movement for mar y years. Substantial financial support is given to the Pre-School Playgroups Association; our grant for 1982–83 is £350,000.