§ Mr. Dormandasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the estimated number of pre-school playgroups in England; and what sum is made available to them from central Government funds.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeI estimate that there may be nearly 10,000 playgroups providing for up to 200,000 children. They receive no funds direct from the Exchequer, but grants to them by local authorities to the value of about £130,000 have been approved for Exchequer grant of 75 per cent. under the Urban Programme. In addition my Department expects to make a grant of £3,500 this year to the Pre-School Playgroups Association itself in order to help to finance its advisory services and administrative costs.