Written question asked by Maria Miller (Conservative) on Tuesday, 27 January 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 29 January 2009. It was answered by Baroness Hughes of Stretford (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 February 2009 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Sure Start Programme: Sheffield

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what discussions he has had with Sheffield Council on its decision to reduce the funding to eight Sure Start children's centres and community nurseries; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Sheffield's allocation for the periods 2008-11 for Sure Start children's centres and Sure Start local programmes is £35,384,827.Sheffield City council, like all local authorities, is responsible for allocating the Sure Start children's centres revenue funding it receives from my Department, and for ensuring there is sufficient childcare for working parents in its area. It has flexibility to determine levels of resource for the children's centres within its area in order to meet identified needs.We have made enquiries via the Government Office Yorkshire and Humberside and Sheffield City council have informed us that it is not withdrawing funding from its children's centres or community nurseries.

Secondary information