§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what new funding will be made available in 1999–2000 for grants under the Opportunities for Volunteering scheme. [66092]
§ Mr. HuttonThe Department will provide funding of £6.9 million for the Opportunities for Volunteering Scheme in 1999–2000. The funding will enable existing grant commitments to be met while the Department develops, in consultation with the Opportunities for Volunteering, national voluntary organisations and other interested parties, its overall strategy to promote volunteering and targeting of the scheme. While the strategy is being developed it would not make sense for new Opportunities for Volunteering grants to be made, committing future funding. The position from 2000–01 will be included in the consideration of the strategy.