HC Deb 15 March 1999 vol 327 cc447-8W
Ms Roseanna Cunningham

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the possible impact on Scottish colleges of new scholarship arrangements in England for students of further and higher education courses in dance, drama and stage management; what plans he has for similar arrangements in Scotland; what body will have responsibility for accrediting dance schools in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [70362]

Mr. Galbraith

[holding answer 11 February 1999]: The new arrangements reflect the special and significant role that private institutions have in delivering dance and drama provision in England. All EU citizens will be able to apply for assistance under the new arrangements, including the small number of Scottish students who have traditionally gone to England for specialist courses. There is no evidence that there will be an adverse impact on Scottish colleges from the new arrangements, but we are monitoring the position. Further education colleges in Scotland are already eligible for grant-in-aid support from the Scottish Office Education and Industry Department budget for dance and drama activity, and are encouraged to develop provision in response to demonstrated needs and demands. We have no plans at this time to introduce any new arrangements in Scotland.

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