§ Mr. WATSONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the extensive damage which is being caused by underground workings in the neighbourhood of Beath secondary school; that, in addition to the school, a large part of the municipal housing scheme is in danger of being ruined; and what steps he proposes to take to safeguard these properties which have been erected at considerable public expense?.
§ Sir G. COLLINSYes, Sir. As regards the municipal housing scheme, the town council inform me that, while several blocks of houses in the vicinity of the school have been for some time affected by mineral workings, there are only two blocks in which damage has proved extensive. This damage has been progressive since 1926; the two blocks are under continuous observation by the burgh surveyor, and I am assured that if at any time the houses became dangerous the tenants would be immediately removed. The responsibility for safeguarding the local authority's houses is one for the local authority themselves, who keep the houses under continuous observation.
§ Mr. WATSONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the closing of Beath Secondary School, Cowdenbeath, owing to the damage done to the building by underground workings; what period is likely to elapse before the school is again fit for occupation; and what provision is being made for continuing the education of the pupils attending the school?
§ Sir G. COLLINSMy attention has been called to the closing of this school, which would in any case have begun its summer holidays on 10th July. It is doubtful whether the building can again636W be made fit for occupation. The education authority are considering the question of alternative provision, and a careful survey of the accommodation available in the area is now being made.