§ Mr. ChaytorTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what recent research he has(a) commissioned and (b) consulted on the contribution of further education to the economy. [112214]
§ Margaret Hodge[holding answer 20 May 2003]: No research has been commissioned on the specific contribution of the further education sector to the economy, although research on the economic returns to the skills and qualifications provided through further education is a major component of the work of the DfES-sponsored Research Centre for the Economics of Education. Reviews have been conducted of research on the benefits of education and skills to the economy, including those provided through further education. A 1004W range of evidence is discussed and cited in my Department's publications of 26 March 2003: "Developing a National Skills Strategy and Delivery Plan: Underlying Evidence" and of 6 May 2003: "Education and Skills: the Economic Benefit".