HC Deb 18 April 1940 vol 359 cc1156-7W
Captain Plugge

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he can make any statement as to the attitude of his Department in regard to the reopening of schools in such areas as Rochester; why Rochester is the exception for the reintroduction of education; and why, so far as possible, education is not being provided for the children who are actually in that town?

Mr. Ramsbotham

The Board's general policy is to secure for all children remaining in evacuation areas the resumption of full-time education at the earliest possible date. In the case of Rochester, its geographical position and the condition of some of its school buildings present special difficulties. As the result, however, of a special investigation by a representative of the Ministry of Home Security in consultation with the Regional Commissioner, proposals have now been made which will enable most of the public elementary schools to reopen as soon as adequate shelter has been provided. Meanwhile I understand that the great majority of children are receiving instruction under a "home-service" scheme.

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