§ Mr. BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what provision his Department makes for child care facilities for staff; what is the extent of subsidy to nursery places and holiday play schemes; if his Department(a) subscribes to "Childcare Solutions" and (b) makes child care vouchers available; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Robin SquireLondon-based staff are able to use the Westminster holiday play scheme which is organised by the Office of Public Service and Science. The cost of places is shared equally by parents and the Department. In the year ending 31 March 1994, six members of staff used the scheme for their children on one or more occasions.
Darlington-based staff have access to a play scheme which was set up at the instigation of the Department for Education. Places are shared with other civil servants working in the Darlington area. In the financial year ending 31 March 1994, 105 children have used the scheme. The costs are borne largely on a pro rata basis by the participating Departments, with parents making a small daily contribution.
The Department does not currently subscribe to "Childcare Solutions" or make child care vouchers available.