§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received about the future payment of debt charges by local authorities arising out of expenditure on further education colleges, and sixth-form colleges; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarIn response to representations from local authorities, my right hon. Friend announced on 9 May that from April 1993 the Further Education Council will take responsibility for debt charges arising from capital projects which commence from 1 April 1991 and are approved by the Secretary of State. Since that announcement, the Department has received representations from 21 authorities, seeking clarification on the scope of the scheme. Officials will be writing to all local education authorities shortly with further details.