§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what study his Department has made of the city of Manchester's needs for capital expenditure for its education service in the financial year 1993–94, including basic need in schools; what help he expects to be available, in particular for the replacement of school premises which are in an unsafe condition; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ForthI discussed Manchester's capital plans briefly on a visit to the authority in July. Officials met representatives from Manchester local education authority to discuss their plans in more detail, prior ito preparation of their bid.
I am meeting a delegation of officers and members from Manchester in early November to discuss their future needs, with particular reference to basic need in primary schools and surplus place removal projects in the secondary sector.
I cannot yet say what resources will be available, but Manchester's needs will be carefully considered in accordance with the normal criteria, along with those from all other LEAs. Their capital allocation will be announced in December.