HC Deb 24 June 1954 vol 529 cc58-9W
84. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Minister of Education if she is aware that a private omnibus hired to take 46 schoolgirls from Penarth to Howell's School, Cardiff, every day, has been warned to stop; and what steps she is taking to ensure that other transport is provided.

Miss Horsbrugh

I understand that the operators of this service have been advised that if they wish to continue it they must apply to the licensing authority for South Wales for a licence. If the service does not continue, I understand that the Glamorgan local education authority will revert to their practice of paying the reasonable travelling expenses by public transport of those Penarth girls who attend the Howell's Direct Grant Grammar School, Cardiff. as free place holders.

Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Education how much money was spent in the last financial year in transport for children to and from schools.

Miss Horsbrugh

I cannot yet give an exact figure for 1953–54, but I estimate that local education authorities spent about£5,300,000 on such transport in that year.