§ Mr. Barry JonesTo 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 EvansI 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 JonesTo 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 EvansI 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.