HC Deb 12 June 1995 vol 261 c406W
21. Mrs. Anne Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he has taken to encourage investment in IT in Welsh schools. [26052]

Mr. Redwood

On 6 April, I announced an initiative which will allow all primary schools in Wales to bid for 100 per cent. funding for IT equipment. Schools can choose between multi-media suites or portables, together with the latest and best available software on the basic subjects of the national curriculum.

The initiative will cost up to £3 million during the school year 1995–96, and will include training on the use of the equipment and follow-on training funded separately through grant for education support and training.

In addition, substantial provision has been made for primary and secondary schools through GEST to support the acquisition and greater use of IT across the curriculum. In 1995–96, this amounts to £2.7 million.