§ Syd RapsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, what steps she is taking to raise standards in further education establishments. [75286]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisWe are determined to build on the progress that has been achieved by the sector in recent years to raise standards. In June we published our proposals for a reform of further education—"Success for All". This comprises a comprehensive strategy, which has received the overwhelming support of key partners, for radical improvements. It will improve the quality and effectiveness of teaching and learning and develop the teachers and leaders of the future. We plan to make further announcements shortly.
§ Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, If she will make a statement on the funding of further education. [75292]
§ Margaret HodgeThis year, 2002–03, £4.4 billion has been allocated to further education, an increase of £1.2 billion (24 per cent. in real terms) compared with 1997–98. The Spending Review settlement for the next three years up to 2005–06 includes a I per cent. real terms annual increase in core funding and paves the way for three year budgets for colleges and other providers which demonstrate their effectiveness. We also expect to announce further substantial resources later in the autumn to support our strategy for reforming further education and training.