§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many students are on assisted places in the 2001–02 academic year; how much is being spent on these places; and if she will make a statement. [58652]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisThere are 12,550 pupils holding places under the Assisted Places Scheme in the 2001–02 academic year at a total estimated cost of £53 million in that year. We are phasing out the scheme in accordance with our 1997 manifesto pledge and using the resources saved to reduce infant class sizes.