HC Deb 07 January 2004 vol 416 c350W
Mr. Gardiner

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what tax incentives are available to companies providing free financial education for(a) children and (b) adults; and how these fit into the Government's policy to reduce financial illiteracy. [145710]

Ruth Kelly

There are no specific tax incentives in place aimed at encouraging companies to provide free financial education to children or adults.

Improving basic financial literacy is a key element of the Government's strategy to reduce social and financial exclusion, while tackling over-indebtedness, and promoting saving. We are doing this across government to help people identify and meet their financial needs. Key initiatives include: the Saving Gateway, a transparent savings account with tailored financial advice and education; a framework for Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) that provides for personal finance education to be taught throughout Key Stages 1 to 4 of the school curriculum; and pension reforms that will help people make better informed choices about their retirement. We also work closely with the Financial Services Authority, which has rightly taken the lead in developing a national strategy for financial capability.