§ 40. Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will review the situation in which children from families on supplementary benefit may not receive assistance towards the purchase of physical education or games kit for use in school; and if she will make a statement.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonI understand that it is the policy of the Supplementary Benefits Commission not to assist towards the purchase of such kit since the local education authorities have discretionary powers to make a range of items available to any pupil free on loan. My right hon. Friend does not consider that in present circumstances a change in this arrangement is possible.