HC Deb 02 December 1996 vol 286 c540W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how much cash has so far been expended on the nursery voucher scheme in Wales; what is his estimate of the amount of moneys he will release to the scheme for the first full year of operation; and if he will make a statement. [6290]

Mr. Jonathan Evans

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave him on 16 October, column984. The Welsh Office has to date spent some £78,000 in respect of the implementation of the scheme in Wales.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the estimated number of nursery vouchers for the first year of its operation; and if he will make a statement. [6291]

Mr. Jonathan Evans

I refer the hon. Member to the answers I gave him on 16 October, column984 and 4 November, column 349. The nursery voucher scheme contractor has sent a preliminary letter to parents of eligible children identified from the child benefit database. Application forms for vouchers will be sent to parents in January.