§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assistance has been given by his Department to union learning funds; and if he will make a statement. [88808]
§ Mr. Ivan Lewis[holding answer 7 January 2003]: Trade unions have a key role to play in promoting the development of learning and skills in the workplace. To help them do this, my Department has provided financial support through the union learning fund since 1998. Between 1998 and March 2002, £16.5million was made available; £9 million is available for 2002–03 and a further £33.6 million has been allocated for the next three years up to 2005–06.
The union learning fund is a highly successful scheme and has become an established part of the lifelong learning agenda. Regular evaluation of this initiative has taken place and copies of the reports are available in the House of Commons Library.