Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Laura Moffatt (Labour). It was answered on Thursday, 18 October 2007 on behalf of the Treasury.

Education and Training

Question: I am grateful for my hon. Friend's reply because with the excellent stewardship of Russell Strutt, the principal of Central Sussex college, which has a campus in Crawley, 34 per cent. of 16 to 18-year-olds attending that college receive education maintenance allowances. The allowances have played a significant role in keeping our 16 to 18-year-olds in education, which improves not only their life chances, but the economy of the Gatwick diamond area. Does my hon. Friend agree that that is wise spending for any Government?

Answer: My hon. Friend is exactly right. The positive effect of education maintenance allowances is there for all to see—I see it in my constituency. They enable those who might not have been motivated in the past to stay on and get the qualifications and training needed in a modern economy to do just that. That benefits not only those individuals and their potential earning power later in life, but our economy.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 464 c946
Session: 2006-07
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Education Education maintenance allowance Training Young people School leaving Apprentices Adult education Economic growth Skilled workers
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk