§ Mr. RowlandsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what estimate he has made of the current number of out of school clubs in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney; and how304W many he estimates will be established in (a) Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney and (b) Wales under the Government's new undertaking. [18505]
§ Mr. HainI understand that one out of school club is being developed in Merthyr Tydfil and there are Homework Clubs associated with each of the secondary schools in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney. During 1997 there were, in addition, 3 Summer Literacy Schools in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney. Under the Government's proposals, The National Lottery New Opportunities Fund will become an important source of funds for new initiatives in education. These will be carefully selected after wide consultation. The extra resources for child care announced by the Chancellor on 26 November 1997 is extremely welcome news and we will make sure that a fair allocation of the new money comes to Wales.