HC Deb 12 February 1998 vol 306 cc281-2W
Mrs. Organ

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what representations he has received from voluntary organisations that are training providers for people with learning disabilities on the effects of delays of approval of ESF funds. [24357]

Mr. Andrew Smith

Since 1 May 1997, my right hon. Friend has received representations about delays in approving ESF funds from a provider of training to people with learning difficulties in Gloucester and I have received representations from a similar organisation in Milton Keynes. In 1996 the eligible period of spending was extended by six months to June 1997 to avoid the danger of large underspends. The Gloucester project was funded from these underspends to run until June 1997. The extension to the programme will mean later final payments but enable full funding of the project.

The final payment to the Milton Keynes project was delayed because of an appreciation in the value of sterling against the ECU in 1997, which left insufficient funds to pay all claims. It has now received payment in full.