asked the Home Secretary what progress has been made during the last 12 months in the provision of adequate accommodation in approved schools for children requiring it; and in what areas is the accommodation still insufficient?

During the last 12 months nearly 700 places have been added to the accommodation available in approved schools in England and Wales. The total number of places has gone up from 9,900 to nearly 10,600, and premises which have been acquired will, when the necessary alterations have been made, provide about 1,400 further places. The shortage of accommodation is mainly in the South Eastern counties.

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his efforts to get the matter put right, may I take it that he is still pressing for further accommodation in that area?

Yes, Sir, I am doing that. I think the House will appreciate that considerable progress has been made, which is very fortunate, having regard to war conditions.