HL Deb 04 March 1993 vol 543 cc42-4WA
Lord Harris of Greenwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many jobclubs operate on the premises of political and social clubs associated with the Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat parties; and what are the total sums of public money involved.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Employment (Viscount Ullswater)

Responsibility for the subject of the Question has been delegated to the Employment Service Agency under its chief executive. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.

Letter from Mr. M. E. G. Fogden, Chief Executive, to Lord Harris of Greenwich, dated 3rd March 1993:

"As the Employment Service is an Executive Agency, it is my responsibility to answer parliamentary questions about relevant operational matters. I am therefore replying to the question you asked Her Majesty's Government about the number of Jobclubs operating on political premises.

Out of a total of 1,236 Jobclubs nationally, five operate on the premises of clubs associated with political parties. Four are on the premises of Conservative clubs, and one at a Labour club. Eighty per cent. of Jobclubs are run by organisations working under contract to us. The organisations (providers) are chosen by open competitive tender, and the providers obtain the premises within which the Jobclub operates. All contracted-out Jobclubs are run by independent companies, and we do not contract with political parties or other political organisations.

Premises are chosen by the provider on a value for money basis, taking into account good transportation links, good facilities and health and safety conditions. On the rare occasions when the location is on political party premises, we insist that the Jobclub presents a neutral image and that members understand that there is no political affiliation.

The provider is paid for the services delivered, and it is the responsibility of the provider to pay all the bills, including rent. Details of the sums of money involved are considered to be commercial in confidence.

I hope this is helpful.

As decided by the Administration Committee of the House of Commons, Chief Executive replies to written Parliamentary Questions will now be published in the Official Report. I will also place a copy of this letter in the Library of the House."