HC Deb 30 April 1952 vol 499 cc95-6W
84. Mr. Marlowe

asked the Minister of Education how much has been spent in providing social and recreational training under Section 53 of the Education Act, 1944, in each of the last five years; how much it is estimated will be spent in the ensuing year; what steps she is taking to avoid wasteful expenditure under this head; and what is the nature of social and recreational training which qualifies for this grant.

Miss Horsbrugh

The figures asked for in the first part of the Question are as follow:

1947–48 £2,937,000 (actual)
1948–49 £3,609,000 (actual)
1949–50 £3,902,000 (actual)
1950–51 £3,603,000 (actual)
1951–52 £4,199,000 (estimated)

The expenditure of authorities for 1952–53 is now estimated at slightly over £4 million. This is more than £600,000 less than the corresponding figure in their forecasts for 1952–53 and reflects the review of expenditure under this head which I asked authorities to undertake in Circular 242, a copy of which I am sending my hon. Friend. The facilities which may be provided or assisted by authorities under Section 53 of the Act include youth and community centres, playing-fields, swimming, camping, play centres and school journeys.