§ 22. Mr. BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what representations he has received on the "New Deal for Schools Capital Programme for England 1998–99" since its publication; and if he will make a statement. [40059]
§ Mr. ByersThe over £500 million investment arising from the second round of the New Deal for schools will bring badly needed improvements to over 4,000 schools and we have received many representations supporting this programme.
§ 35. Mrs. McGuireTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what arrangements his Department has made to help young unemployed people travel to work and training opportunities under the new deal. [40072]
506W
§ Mr. Andrew SmithWe have negotiated reduced fares with the Association of Train Operating Companies which will offer New Deal participants 50 per cent. reductions in fares. London Transport (underground and buses) will offer the same discount. In addition, 55 agreements with bus and coach companies throughout the country have been signed, resulting in discounts of between 50 per cent. and 80 per cent.
In addition, young unemployed people on New Deal on the Full Time Education and Training, Voluntary Service and Environment Task Force Options have their travelling costs reimbursed either through an allowance or by the provider.