§ Mr. Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment for what reasons the Colchester area was selected, under the Welfare to Work New Deal proposals, for private sector bidding; and if he will make a statement. [15857]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithWe have invited the private sector to lead the organisation and delivery of New Deal in a total of ten locations. The competition to identify private sector lead organisations in the two pathfinder areas of Hackney and City and South Humber is complete. The additional eight areas were selected on the basis of a judgment as to where a private sector led partnership would have most to contribute.
§ Mr. Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many hon. Members responded to his consultation letter on the Government's Welfare to Work proposals; and if he will list those responded. [15856]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithThe response to our Welfare to Work proposals has been very encouraging, from hon. Members as well as from employers, voluntary sector organisations and other interested partners. Consultation on the New Deal and other Welfare to Work proposals has been wide ranging and it is not possible to identify from our records which of many representations we have received have been as a direct response to my right hon. Friend's letter.