asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many vacancies existed in list D schools on the last most convenient date; how many unfulfilled requests have been received from juvenile panels for vacancies; and if he will make a statement about progress in the building programme.

At 11th May 1975 the number of vacancies in List D schools expected in the ensuing four-week period was 11. The number of outstanding applications for places in respect of children appearing before children's hearings was 492. Responsibility for the provision of residential accommodation for children under the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 rests upon local authorities. Projects due to be completed this autumn at existing List D schools will provide 69 additional places.