65.
asked the Minister of Education if he is aware that his Department apologised to the hon. Member for Maldon, on 22nd November, 1946, for delay in deciding to approve a grant towards the cost of laying out the village playingfield at Shalford, near Braintree. Essex, an application for which was submitted on 12th June, 1946, but that this matter is still unsettled despite repeated reminders and representations, most of which have not been acknowledged; what is the cause of this long delay which will deprive the people of Shalford of the full use of their playingfield this summer; and if he will take action at once.
A provisional otter of grant was made on 10th December last, subject to certain requirements affecting plans and estimates of costs. The offer of grant was confirmed on the 26th April. I regret the delay which has occurred in this case and have taken steps to see that it does not recur.