§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will list for each year the cost of the assisted places scheme in Shropshire; and if he will make a statement. [110132]
§ Ms Estelle MorrisThe cost to the Exchequer of the assisted places scheme at the seven participating schools in the area of the present Shropshire local education authority in the current academic year 1999–2000 is estimated to be £535,600. Information relating to previous years is not readily available and, in any case, would not be directly comparable in view of the boundary changes brought about by the recent local government re-organisation. The assisted places scheme is being phased out and no new assisted places are now available.