§ Ms KeebleTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) when the decision will be taken on the level of capitation grant for supported employment placements for 1999–2000; [39637]
(2) what is the projected level of funding available to the Sheltered Employment and Procurement Consultancy Services for capital grants for 1999–2000 and for 2000–01; [39638]
(3) what assessment he has made of the impact on income levels of people with disabilities who have approved placements at supported factories of the freeze on the capitation grant for supported employment placements; [39639]
(4) what assessment his Department has made of the effect on supported factories of the freeze of the capitation grant for supported employment placements; [39640]
(5) when the decision was taken to freeze the capitation grant for supported employment placements. [39641]
§ Mr. Alan HowarthThe Employment Service works closely with supported employment providers on the operation, and factors affecting delivery, of their contracts including capitation needs, and advises and assists them in devising strategies for improving business efficiency.
Wages rates are a matter between employer and employee and, where an industry has agreed rates, these will apply in workshops.
The Supported Employment Consultative Group was advised formally of the grant rate in March 1998 and all contract managers were written to on 6 April.
In common with other Departments, the Department for Education and Employment has undertaken a comprehensive spending review of all areas of its spending. Announcements will be made in the summer. Capitation grant levels for future years will be set following decisions about the Department's overall base lines.