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Treasury

Answer

Mr. Gardiner: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what tax incentives are available to companies providing free financial education for (a) children and (b) adults; and how these fit into the Government's policy to reduce financial illiteracy. [145710] Ruth Kelly: There are no specific tax incentives in place aimed at encouraging companies to provide free financial education to children or adults. Improving basic financial literacy is a key element of the Government's strategy to reduce social and financial exclusion, while tackling over-indebtedness, and promoting saving. We are doing this across government to help people identify and meet their financial needs. Key initiatives include: the Saving Gateway, a transparent savings account with tailored financial advice and education; a framework for Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) that provides for personal finance education to be taught throughout Key Stages 1 to 4 of the school curriculum; and pension reforms that will help people make better informed choices about their retirement. We also work closely with the Financial Services Authority, which has rightly taken the lead in developing a national strategy for financial capability.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

145710; 416 c350W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Curriculum Companies Debts Information Financial services Financial institutions Personal savings Tax allowances

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk