§ Mr. SandersTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what mechanisms there are for resolving disputes between schools and local authorities over the level of PFI unitary charges. [105262]
§ Mr. MilibandThere are no specific statutory mechanisms for resolving disputes between schools and local education authorities about the funding of PFI projects. There are general provisions in the Education Acts under which complaints against local education authorities, or disputes between local education authorities and school governing bodies, may be referred to the Secretary of State. It is of course open to LEAs and governing bodies to establish agreed local mechanisms for resolving disputes, and there is much to be said for this way of proceeding.
§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills when he will make a decision on Barnet Council's proposed PFI plan for school buildings; and if he will make a statement. [105443]
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§ Mr. MilibandThe London borough of Barnet was one of 56 Local Education Authorities which submitted an expression of interest in the current schools PFI bidding round. All the expressions of interest received have been assessed against the published criteria. The decisions on which proposed projects will be supported have now been taken and will be announced on Monday 31 March.