HC Deb 13 February 2004 vol 418 cc195-6W
John Mann

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what criteria are set for dispute resolution within learning and skills councils. [154860]

Alan Johnson

This is a matter for the Learning and Skills Council. Mark Haysom, the Council's Chief Executive, will write to my hon. Friend with this information and a copy of his reply will be placed in the Library.

John Mann

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what criteria he uses in determining value for money from learning and skills councils; and what account he takes of value for money from councils when deciding upon re-appointment of council (a) directors and (b) board members. [154861]

Alan Johnson

The Learning and Skills Council Remit Letter, issued in November 2000, places a duty on the LSC to make the best use of its resources. It requires the Council to take account of the findings from individual provider and area inspection reports, and the assessments of the Inspectorates about whether the financial resources made available to providers are managed effectively and used in ways which provide value for money.

The appointment of directors to the LSC is an operational matter for the LSC. Over 600 local Council 'board' members bring a wealth of knowledge, skills and expertise to bear on the delivery of the skills agenda at the local level. They make this commitment on a voluntary basis (which clearly yields excellent value for money). Appointments of Council members is in line with the Nolan principles of fair and open competition and operated in accordance with the guidance issued by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Reappointments are a matter for the LSC. Mark Haysom, the Council's Chief Executive, will write to my hon. Friend with this information and a copy of his reply will be placed in the Library.