§ Dr. StoateTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many pre-schools and playgroups in Dartford(a) have benefited and (b) are expected to benefit from the special Government grants made available to relieve financial pressure on the pre-school sector. [118821]
§ Ms HodgeOur records for the 1998 and 1999 schemes to assist pre-schools and playgroups facing financial difficulty show that no applications for grant were received from pre-schools and playgroups in Dartford.
Arrangements for the administration of the new scheme, which I announced on 29 March 2000, will be discussed with the voluntary pre-school and playgroup support organisations. Among the main issues to be taken into account in deciding applications for grant will be the 346W financial position of the group, quality issues, longer term viability and any comments received from the local Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership.