§ Mr. Tony LloydTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what representations she has received about plans to close the careers service office in Hulme, Manchester; and what discussions she has held with the local careers service. [19839]
§ Mr. Paice[holding answer 8 March 1996]: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has received no representations about the closure of any careers service office in the Hulme area of Manchester.
The existing contract between the Department and the careers service provider in Manchester recognised the need to review a number of issues, including premises. This review has now been completed and proposals arising from it will be a matter for discussion with the Department by the end of March 1996.
§ Mr. LloydTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what directions she has issued to the careers service in Manchester, Salford, Trafford and Tameside about the need to maintain levels of service in inner-city areas. [19838]
§ Mr. Paice[holding answer 8 March 1996]: The service expected from careers service providers is specified in "The Requirements and Guidance for Careers Service Providers." This describes the service required, the principals on which it should be based, and the standards to which it must be delivered.
569WSubstantial amounts of careers service activity takes place within schools, and so is delivered to students in situ. For other clients, services should be available at times which are convenient to them, prominently displayed, and within reasonable daily travelling distance. These matters are clearly set out in the contract between the Department and the respective careers service provider. They include a strong focus on meeting clients' needs, taking into account any relevant factors impinging on clients in inner-city areas.