§ Mr. SandersTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what steps his Department is taking to consult voluntary sector organisations over changes to the mechanisms by which they can apply for European Social Fund grants. [R] [139125]
§ Ms JowellWe have published a consultation document, "The European Social Fund: proposals for co-financing in England". We have sent a summary version to providers. The summary and full documents are also available on the ESF News website. The consultation was launched at a conference hosted by TEN (Training and Employment Network); that conference was attended mainly by representatives of voluntary and community organisations. The TEN website also carries the consultation documents. Voluntary and community organisations have been invited to attend regional consultation events. Officials are also holding more informal discussions with providers from the voluntary sector.