Further and Higher Education

HC Deb 19 January 2000 vol 342 c433W

Mr. Jenkins

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what measures he is taking to improve the pay and conditions of teaching staff in(a) colleges of further education and (b) universities. [105143]

Mr. Wicks

The pay and conditions of staff in further education colleges and higher education institutions are matters for employers and staff. The Government are investing heavily in both sectors and announced in November 1999 increases of £365 million for further education and £295 million for higher education for 2001–02.

Ms Atherton

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will appoint an ombudsman for further and higher education. [105480]

Mr. Wicks

My right hon. Friend has no plans to establish an Ombudsman for further and higher education.