HC Deb 23 November 1972 vol 846 cc459-60W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she is aware that, notwithstanding the Government's appeal, large numbers of Ugandan Asians are settling in Red areas, and that problems are being created regarding the lack of school places in these districts; and whether she will seek powers to make a special grant to councils that have to bus out children to other boroughs for schooling purposes.

Mrs. Thatcher

I am aware that in a few areas the arrival of Uganda Asian children has created pressure on school places. The answer to the second part of the Question is "No, Sir".

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether she is aware that the Registrar of Births and Deaths in the London Borough of Newham has published his official report showing that the number of babies of immigrants is more than double that of the national average and that this is causing difficulties with regard to present and future educational facilities; and whether she will now have discussions with the local education authority to see to what extent her Department can assist, in addition to increasing the minor works programme.

Mrs. Thatcher

I am aware of the large numbers of pupils of overseas parentage in Newham. Additional nursery provision has been approved under the urban programme; the teacher quota has been increased; and grant has been paid to the local authority under Section 11 of the Local Government Act. 1966.

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