§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland on what basis he reduced the budget of Clydebank college in the current year. [24034]
§ Mr. Raymond S. RobertsonFormula funding aims to increase student participation on a cost-effective basis whilst maintaining quality. It rewards colleges which have been most successful in reducing unit costs and attracting and retaining students. The reduction in 1996–97 was largely due to the college's failure to attract additional students. The setting of the college budget is undertaken by the college board of management.
§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the financial position of Clydebank college. [24035]
§ Mr. RobertsonThe latest audited accounts to 31 March 1995 show that Clydebank college had a deficit since incorporation of £70,000. In addition a deficit of £235,000 was inherited from pre-incorporation. Officials are in dialogue with college management over their plans to address its financial position.