§ Mr. DonohoeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much money was spent by his Department for each education authority in Scotland for each financial year since 1987–88 in supporting educational transport; and what were the number of pupils covered by this provision for each local authority, the total number of pupils within each education authority during this period, and the percentage covered by free school transport provision. [39408]
Mr. Robertson[holding answer 26 October 1995]: The detailed information requested cannot be provided in the time scale allowed. I shall write to the hon. Member as soon as that information has been collated.
§ Mr. DonohoeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what changes his Department is considering to the guidance currently in force relating to the criteria for school pupils in Scotland to qualify for free transport and the manner in which he funds this transport provision. [39409]
Mr. Robertson[holding answer 26 October 1995]: Under current legislation, decisions regarding the provision of school transport are entirely a matter for each education authority. Under sections 50 and 51 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980, education authorities have a duty to make such transport arrangements as they consider necessary for the provision of free transport, of transport facilities as may be arranged, and for paying all or part of reasonable travel expenses for school pupils belonging to their area. The Government have no plans to amend this legislation, or to change the manner in which this transport provision is funded.
On 24 May 1995, guidance was issued to the chief executives of the new unitary authorities about the current legislation relating to the provision of school transport as part of detailed guidance on their future education responsibilities from 1 April 1996. There are no plans to add to that guidance.