§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to assist playgroups in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [78957]
Mr. Jon Owen JonesOn 1 April 1999, I announced funding of £50,000, to be split between the Wales Pre-School Playgroups Association and Mudiad Ysgolian Meithrin, to help sustain good quality playgroups in Wales. This is in addition to the £50,000 made available in 1998–99 to support playgroups at risk of closing.
I have also announced that there will be a review of how playgroups and the pre-school movement can develop their role in delivering both early years education and childcare in Wales.
In future, childcare will be a matter for the National Assembly.