HC Deb 04 March 1997 vol 291 c582W
Mr. Welsh

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to include an assessment of(a) the quality of the services and (b) other factors in the future determination of grants for further education colleges; and if he will make a statement. [17998]

Mr. Raymond S. Robertson

[holding answer 28 February 1997]: The White Paper "Raising the Standard", Cm 3542, published in January 1997 set out our plans to consult colleges on introducing, from 1997–98, a direct link between quality and funding. That, and other factors, will be considered in the review of the further education funding formula I have announced will take place.

Mr. Welsh

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to provide additional funding to the further education sector to allow for the introduction of new initiatives; and if he will make a statement. [17999]

Mr. Robertson

[holding answer 29 February 1997]: The White Paper "Raising the Standard", Cm 3542, published in January 1997 set out our plans to launch a challenge fund to improve the use of new technology by colleges. The sum of £1.3 million will be made available for this in 1997–98.

Mr. Welsh

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to review the funding formula for the further education sector; and if he will make a statement. [18000]

Mr. Robertson

[holding answer 28 February 1997]: I announced on 3 February 1997 that a review of the funding formula for the further education sector would be initiated. Work on that will commence shortly, and will involve representatives of the sector.

Mr. Welsh

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultations he has had with the further education sector in respect of its concerns about the current funding formula; and if he will make a statement. [18001]

Mr. Robertson

[holding answer 28 February 1997]: I met representatives of the Association of Scottish Colleges on 27 January 1997 for a discussion on further education funding. I assured them that college views will be considered as part of the forthcoming review of the funding formula.