§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how much money has been spent in the current financial year under the scheme to train specialist teachers; how many people have benefited; how many applicants have been turned down for lack of finance; what steps he is taking to provide extra finance; and if he will make a statement as to how much will be provided for the financial year 1981–82.
§ Dr. BoysonIn the current academic year a total of 819 people have been assisted to take courses of initial teacher training, retraining or further training in shortage subjects under the Government scheme operated by the Manpower Services Commission. Though the demand for assistance under the scheme has exceeded the financial provision originally made, I am glad to say that so far all candidates who have joined the waiting list for grants or awards have been given assistance. The Manpower Services Commission estimates that the scheme, which is to continue until 1983, will cost £2.86 million in the current financial year. It is expected that the scheme will make provision for a similar level of awards and grants in 1981–82.