§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment on what date those persons tendering for the skill centres were informed that £11 million was to be made available to the prospective purchaser; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarThe Skills Training Agency was offered for sale by private tender, and bidders were invited to submit offers. The sale of training businesses announced on 13 February,Official Report, columns 141–42, will involve a payment from the Government to Astra of some £11 million. This is a price determined in the sale process after open and competitive bids and subsequent negotiations. It reflects the costs of turning round a business which is currently unprofitable and creating a training business with good prospects of viability.