§ Mr. GardinerTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills (1) what discussions he has had282W with financial companies about the assistance they can provide to schools to improve financial literacy, with particular reference to the child trust fund; [145712]
(2) if he will increase the amount of financial education given to children in the national curriculum, with particular regard to work related to the child trust fund; [145714]
(3) what discussions his Department has had with teachers' unions about the introduction of child trust funds and the need for increased provision of financial education in schools. [145718]
§ Mr. MilibandThe Department has had discussions with a range of companies about supporting schools to improve numeracy and financial literacy, but none specifically in relation to the child trust fund. Personal finance education is covered in the curriculum as part of the Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) and Citizenship framework, and through subjects such as mathematics. Guidance issued in July 2000 encourages schools to involve local banks and building societies who may be able to provide resources or advice.
It is for schools to determine the amount of time to be given to specific topics within the curriculum and the Department has no plans to recommend to schools that the amount of financial education should be increased.
No discussions have been held between the Department and teachers' unions about the introduction of child trust funds and increased provision for financial education.