HC Deb 27 April 1994 vol 242 cc219-20W
Mr. Raymond S. Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he proposes to publish his report on the discharge of his duties for further education in Scotland as required under section 1 of the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 1992; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lang

I am pleased to say that the report entitled "Further Education in Scotland 1993: Report by the Secretary of State for Scotland" has been published today and has been laid before each House of Parliament. Copies are available in the Library of the House.

On 1 April 1993, 43 further education colleges transferred from education authority management and funding to incorporated status, grant-aided by the Scottish Office. Preparations for incorporation were undertaken vigorously and enthusiastically and the transition went smoothly. A great deal of credit for this goes to college boards of management and staff.

The report shows that the first year of incorporation has been a successful one for the colleges and I look forward to working in partnership with them in the future.