asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is aware that the British Army Primary School at Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan, Malaysia, is closing down; and what arrangements are being made for the children of six to eight years old to be taught elsewhere.

Yes, Sir. There are only four children of Army families left in the school and we cannot justifiably keep it open. Arrangements are therefore being made for these children to be taught by their parents with the assistance of the Parents' National Educational Union.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that before officers went to this appointment at Port Dickson inquiries were made and assurances were given that there was a school for a sixyear-old child? Is he also aware that the nearest school is 24 miles away? Does he consider that that is satisfactory?

The school, which is 24 miles away, is for older children and, of course, it is not possible for younger children, about whom we are basically concerned in this Question, to travel as far as that. I am sorry about that, but when it comes to providing a school for four children there is little we can do except the provision which we have made through the Educational Union, and I am sure that that will be satisfactory.