§ 9. Mr. Hoosonasked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he is satisfied that the Welsh educational system is providing the most desirable mix of well-qualified recruits to enable information technology companies to grow in Wales; and what consultations he plans with the employers and educational institutions most involved in this issue.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsI have had widespread consultations with employers and educational institutions and will continue to do so.
§ Mr. HoosonWhat specific steps have been taken to encourage the development of suitable courses in Wales?
§ Mr. EdwardsIn the advanced further education pool for specific information technology courses in 1983–84, £100,000 was made available to support four courses offering 30 degree places and 30 sub-degree places at higher education institutions in Wales. That figure was increased in 1984–85. In the non-advanced further education area, support grants are being introduced in 1985–86 to encourage the development of information technology courses.