Nursery Voucher Scheme

HC Deb 06 March 1996 vol 273 cc226-7W

Mr. Mills

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many local education authorities will suffer financial penalties under the provision of the nursery voucher scheme. [18797]

Mr. Robin Squire

No local education authority will lose any funding if it continues to recruit the same number of four-year-olds as it does now. Moreover, the voucher scheme will leave LEAs with funds to make grants to the voluntary sector, and for other related purposes.

Mr. Alfred Morris

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what representations she has received from the Manchester Diocesan Board for Education in regard to her proposals for nursery vouchers; what reply she is making; and if she will make a statement. [17212]

Mr. Robin Squire

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has received one Letter from the Manchester diocesan board of education, dated 21 February, about the nursery voucher scheme. My right hon. Friend will shortly send a full reply.