§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if she will make a statement on proposals to use the private finance initiative in the activities of new providers for funded early years' education; and if she will make a statement on the role to be played in administering education by sources of the private finance initiative. [17872]
§ Mr. Robin SquireMy right hon. Friend expects projects under the private finance initiative to make an increasing contribution to the capital needs of the education sector, including the provision of early years' education. The Government's voucher scheme for nursery education creates an identifiable source of revenue which should prove attractive to the private sector. Phase 1 of the voucher scheme will highlight opportunities to potential providers.
PFI gives the public sector the opportunity to benefit from the application of private sector expertise and resources in developing innovative solutions for capital projects and services, thereby ensuring improved management of public projects and best value for money for public resources.