HC Deb 06 June 1996 vol 278 cc541-2W
Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) by how much school transport costs have risen in(a) cash, (b) real price and (c) percentage terms since the Government adopted a policy of open enrolment; [31030]

(2) what have been the percentage, cash and real terms changes in transport costs in the primary, secondary, further and special needs sectors of education since the adoption of a policy of open enrolment. [31031]

Mr. Ancram

Between the introduction of open enrolment policy in 1990 and March 1995–1994–95 is the latest year for which actual expenditure is available—net expenditure on school transport has risen by some 50 per cent. from £23.2 million in 1990–91 to £34.7 million. The equivalent figures in constant price terms are £26.4 million and £34.7 million respectively reflecting an increase of approximately 31 per cent. Separate costs are not readily available for primary, secondary, further and special needs sectors of education and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what are the principal factors underlying the change in school transport costs in the last five years. [31032]

Mr. Ancram

The principal factors are an increase in the total school population, an increase in the proportion of pupils attending schools beyond statutory walking distance and an increase in the cost of provision of such transport.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will publish a breakdown of current education transport costs by made of transport. [31033]

Mr. Ancram

The latest year for which actual expenditure is available is 1994–95 and the information is as follows:

£ million
Education and Library Board Vehicles 9.2
Public Transport 19.9
Taxi Services 3.8
Other 1.8
Total 34.7

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to what extent the rise in education transport costs is due to increases in charges by transport companies. [31034]

Mr. Ancram

Increases in charges by public transport providers account for approximately 21 per cent. of the total cost increases for school transport in the period 1990–91 to 1994–95.