§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the strategic aim of his method of calculating the further education budget in terms of increasing skill levels in Scotland. [24036]
§ Mr. Raymond S. RobertsonThe aim is to increase student participation on a cost-effective basis, while maintaining quality, and thus increase the skills levels and economic competitiveness of Scotland.
§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what account he takes of levels of local unemployment in allocating budgets to further education colleges. [24037]
§ Mr. RobertsonNone, as investigation has shown this not to be a significant factor in determining the total costs of colleges. Colleges delivered 6 per cent. more student activity between 1993–94 and 1994–95. Higher levels of student activity are enhancing employment prospects.