§ Mr. ChaytorTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to ensure that funds allocated to schools via the National Grid for Learning are sufficient to cover the costs of necessary infrastructure, with particular reference to electric points and security systems. [48087]
§ Mr. ByersThe National Grid for Learning Standards Fund supports expenditure of over £100 million in 1998–99. It has been allocated to support schools' 483W investment in local network infrastructure, including costs associated with their installation, maintenance and use. Related improvements to buildings and services are the responsibility of the LEA or school governors.
Schools would be expected to take full account of the security implications of such investments at an early stage in the planning cycle and guidance is freely available from the British Educational Communications and Technology Agency to help them in this process. Grants are available from the Standards Fund to support improvements in the security of school premises, including of IT equipment.