§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales, pursuant to the oral statement of the Minister for School Standards of 24 March 1998,Official Report, columns 398–99, if he will make a statement on the accessibility of Welsh-medium nursery education in all parts of Wales. [37145]
§ Mr. HainIn securing nursery education places under early years development plans, each early years development partnership must give full consideration to parental demand for Welsh-medium provision. In cases where a change in the balance of provision between the maintained and voluntary sectors is proposed, the plan must state how this will enhance and not damage the accessibility and sustainability of Welsh-medium education.
These requirements are clearly set out in the Welsh Office guidance on early years education issued this year. Plans have to be submitted to the Welsh Office by 31 May for approval.