§ Mr. RandallTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what earmarked funds are available for refurbishment of school kitchens. [158495]
§ Mr. MilibandThe only funds specifically earmarked for projects including the refurbishment of school kitchens relate to Voluntary Aided (VA) schools. This results from the reform of liabilities and funding arrangements at VA schools in 2002, when their governing bodies took on responsibility for some buildings (including kitchens) which were previously the responsibility of local education authorities. No other capital funding is earmarked by the Department, most being provided formulaically to support local prioritisation of need.