§ Mr. Ashdownasked the Paymaster General what discussions have been initiated by the Manpower Services Commission regarding provision of adult training courses in 1987–88 and beyond; what account has been taken of the comparative value for money offered by colleges of further education in providing such courses; when he expects decisions to be made on the commissioning of such provision for 1987–88; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierThe Manpower Services Commission will shortly be issuing planning guidance to its area offices in the vocational education and training group on the commissioning of adult training courses in the financial year 1987–88. The planning guidance will encourage area offices to seek the best value for money when commissioning courses, both from colleges of further education and from other training providers. It is expected that the plans developed by area offices will be approved by early April.