§ Mr. HealeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what steps are being taken to explain the benefits of life-long learning to deaf people; and if a video in sign language and sub-titled has been commissioned. [51143]
§ Dr. HowellsMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment published his proposals for the development of lifelong learning for all in the Green Paper,The Learning Age: A Renaissance for a New Britain (Cm 3790), on 25 February. We welcome comments on these proposals from all quarters, including deaf people and organisations which represent them, by 24 July, when the period for consultation closes. We will consider how best to explain further to all groups the benefits of lifelong learning, including the possible use of videos and other materials, in the light of the comments received and other advice.
§ Mr. HealeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if a financial contribution to individual learning accounts over and above the £150 from the TEC will be made available to deaf participants to cover the cost of communication support; and what will be the maximum amount available through any such funds to individuals with special needs. [51141]
§ Dr. HowellsWe are currently consulting on the arrangements for individual learning accounts, which will be available to everyone including people with disabilities. The TEC contribution of £150 will be available for the first million accounts and will encourage individuals to take up learning. Some TECs already provide additional funds to help people who need extra assistance to access and benefit from training. There is no reason why this additional funding cannot be used in a learning account to contribute towards the provision of a communicator for deaf people.