§ Mr. EtheringtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will list the guidance issued since 1992 to local education authorities regarding the provision of, and funds for, safe play surfaces for(a) nursery schools and units, (b) infant and junior schools and (c) secondary schools. [89964]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeThe Department's guidance for schools on play surfaces is contained within its 1997 Building Bulletin 85, "School Grounds: A Guide to Good Practice". Before then, the Department referred inquirers 635W to the National Playing Field Association's publication, "Play Safety Guidelines", and continues to do so. The Department has not issued guidance to local education authorities on funding for safe play surfaces.