HC Deb 26 February 1969 vol 778 cc308-10W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions have taken place between his Department's technical officers and large contractors on the general problems of laying out playing fields in the last 12 months; and if he will name the contractors.

Mr. Ross

None, but the Department's technical officers have at times discussed specific cases with contractors. Detailed advice about the laying out of playing fields is available to contractors in the Department of Education and Science Building Bulletin No. 28, and this is thought to cover most of the problems that experience suggests are likely to arise.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what advice he has given to local authorities in relation to the inclusion of penalty clauses in agreements between local authorities and contractors in the provision of school playing fields.

Mr. Ross

Authorities have been recommended to include in building contracts generally a liquidated damages clause providing for the reimbursement of identifiable losses if delays occurs.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will give details of the improvements in the design of playing fields in the last five years initiated by central government.

Mr. Ross

A Building Bulletin issued by the Department of Education and Science in 1966 on playing fields and hard surface areas provides guidance based on developments since the previous edition in 1955.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what advice his Department gives local authorities to encourage them to have playing fields for new schools available to coincide with the opening of the school.

Mr. Ross

This is so obviously desirable that I do not think education authorities require advice about it.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will outline his cost control system for the construction of school playing fields.

Mr. Ross

The School Building Code requires education authorities to submit the estimated costs and plans of school playing fields for approval.