§ Mr. St.AubynTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many places were bought from independent schools by his Department during 1998–99 outside the assisted places scheme; and at what cost. [107023]
§ Ms Estelle MorrisUnder the Government's Music and Ballet Scheme and Choir School Scholarship Scheme, 693 aided places and 72 chorister places were supported at a total cost of £9.7 million in financial year 1998–99. Apart from the Assisted Places Scheme, the Department does not otherwise buy places directly from independent schools.