Post-16 Education

HC Deb 24 June 2004 vol 422 c1537W

Mrs. Curtis-Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether there are systematic checks on eligibility for post-16 education. [177943]

Mr. Ivan Lewis

Yes. Eligibility checks on post-16, excluding higher education, students are determined by the eligibility requirements, the level of risk of abuse and the need to minimise bureaucratic burdens on learners, learning providers and employers. This is an operational matter and the responsibility of the. Learning and Skills Council. Mark Haysom, the Council's Chief Executive, will write to the hon. Member with this information and a copy of his reply will be placed in the Library.