HC Deb 26 February 2004 vol 418 cc545-6W
Helen Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what progress has been made by learning and skills councils in carrying out strategic area reviews; and if he will make a statement. [156633]

Alan Johnson

Last April all local Learning and Skills Councils (LSCs) started strategic area reviews of post-16 LSC-funded provision. These reviews assess the extent to which the current pattern of post-16 learning in each local area meets the needs of learners, employers and the community and are a key driver for change.

Each local LSC has developed project plans, put in place local review arrangements and agreed a timetable for the review process. The majority of local LSCs are now completing the information gathering and analysis stage of the review and some are now starting to consider possible strategic options. There will be full consultation with local stakeholders throughout the reviews.

By Spring 2005 most local LSCs will have completed the reviews and published resulting outcomes.