§ 5. Mr. Christopher Priceasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what arrangements she intends to make for the continuation of the adult literacy programme beyond 1978.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Education and Science (Mr. Gordon Oakes)Since March 1976, plans have been made for the limited pump-priming grant of some £1 million per annum disbursed through the Adult Literacy Resource Agency to cease on 31st March 1978, after which the whole burden would revert to local education authorities as part of their general responsibilities for adult education. We are, however, carefully considering the recommendations made for the future by the agency through its parent body, the National Institute of Adult Education.
§ Mr. PriceIs my hon. Friend aware that it is somewhat irresponsible to prime pumps if one ensures that the pumps run dry three years later? Is he further aware that many employees of both local authorities and voluntary agencies, which have carried out some important and useful work in the last three years, feel that their jobs are in jeopardy until the Government announce their plans? Will he make sure that this money is spent on adult literacy after April 1978? When does he intend to make a statement?
§ Mr. OakesOne cannot prime pumps forever, and I received the report of the National Institute only yesterday. I wish to pay tribute to the many people who were involved in the adult literacy scheme, especially the voluntary tutors and the BBC, for the tremendous work which has been undertaken.
§ Mr. WigleyIs the Minister aware that in some areas such as Gwynedd the job creation scheme has been used to advantage? In view of the fact that the job creation scheme will be extended beyond 1978, will he give an assurance that nothing will debar authorities from using the adult literacy programme after 1978?
§ Mr. OakesI assure the hon. Gentleman that nothing will be done to debar local authorities from using the scheme. It is a matter for the Manpower Services Commission and the authorities.
§ Mr. WatkinsonIs it the Minister's intention to publish the report of the National Institute of Adult Education? Is he aware that a parliamentary reply recently established that over 100,000 people had benefited from this programme? In those circumstances, will he favourably consider a request from various bodies to continue the programme so as to benefit a great many more people?
§ Mr. OakesI can see no difficulties in the report being published. However, I should inform the House that I received the report only yesterday, and I note that there is a plan to continue schemes focused on adult literacy. I am considering that matter carefully.