§ Mrs. EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what childcare provision is made available by his Department for the use of staff; what is the cost to parents of this childcare; how many parents used the facilities in the financial years(a) 1996–97 and (b) 1997–98; and what proportion of total staff used these facilities in the financial years (i) 1996–97 and (ii) 1997–98. [59721]
§ Mr. DewarThe Scottish Office have two work place nurseries in Edinburgh. Subsidised places at holiday playschemes are offered to staff in Edinburgh and Glasgow. These operate during the Easter and summer school holiday periods.
376WIn 1996–97 the cost of a full time nursery place was £63 per week and in 1997–98 the cost was £64.57 per week. In total 51 full-time nursery places are available. The service is provided by a private contractor under contract to The Scottish Office. Details of the number of staff using the service are not held by The Scottish Office.