§ 65. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he is aware that one of the reasons for children being unable to gain admission to school in accordance with the Education Act in Newham is the shortage of teachers; and that such shortage is due in part to lack of available housing accommodation; and whether he will investigate the possibility of taking over Eastgate House, High Street, Stratford, E.15, a new building which has been empty for almost 12 months, as a residence for teachers.
§ Mr. RedheadI am aware of the serious shortage of qualified infant teachers in Newham, and I think it would help the authority to attract and retain teachers if they could offer them suitable living accommodation within the borough. I have been glad to learn that the borough council intends shortly to review its general policy regarding the provision of housing for its staff, including teachers, and I am sure they will bear this point in mind. I am advised by the authority that Eastgate House was built for commercial occupation and could not economically be converted into a residence for teachers.