Written question asked by Patsy Calton (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 12 June 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 June 2003. It was answered by Baroness Hodge of Barking (Labour) on Monday, 23 June 2003 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Dept for Education and Skills

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, which local authorities (a) have and (b) do not have reciprocal arrangements with other local authorities to pay for (i) nursery and (ii) childcare facilities. - Inc fact that this information is not collected centrally.

Answer: Mrs. Calton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills which local authorities (a) have and (b) do not have reciprocal arrangements with other local authorities to pay for (i) nursery and (ii) child care facilities. [119694] Margaret Hodge: This information is not collected centrally. Although the Department actively encourages reciprocal arrangements, decisions about cross-border funding can realistically be taken only at local level so that proper account can be taken of local needs and circumstances. By April 2004, six months ahead of schedule, all three-year-olds will have access to a free early education place irrespective of where they live.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 119694; 407 c546W;407 c548-9W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Childcare Fees and charges Local government Nurseries Reciprocal arrangements
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk