§ Mr. Doddsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the number of gypsies in Scotland; what steps have been taken to deal with the problems of camping sites or houses for them; what has been done to ensure education for their children of school age; and in what way gypsies are being encouraged to become integrated with the rest of the population.
§ Mr. MaclayNo reliable estimate exists, but it is thought that the number of tinker families in the northern counties, where they are most noticeable, is probably about 200. The housing of these families and their integration with the community was last discussed in 1958 with the local authorities concerned who have endeavoured, so far as circumstances permit, to provide accommodation for families who are prepared to settle down. To ensure regular school attendance by the children of itinerant families is admittedly difficult, but I am assured that the education authorities are doing all they can.