Written question asked by Andrew Hunter (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 10 January 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 January 2005. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Tuesday, 18 January 2005 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, if she will revise the further education college sector's area uplift funding so that colleges in areas of lower funding in close proximity to areas of higher funding will be less disadvantaged in comparison to nearby colleges. - Inc fact that Mark Haysom, the LSC's Chief Executive, will write to the hon. Member providing the information requested and a copy of his reply will be place in Library.

Answer: Mr. Hunter: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will revise the further education college sector's area uplift funding so that colleges in areas of lower funding in close proximity to areas of higher funding will be less disadvantaged in comparison to nearby colleges. [208186] Dr. Howells: The area costs uplift is a feature of the Learning and Skills Council's funding methodology. As matters concerning the level and structure of the uplift relate to the LSC's operational responsibilities Mark Haysom, the LSC's Chief Executive, will write to the hon. Member providing the information requested and a copy of his reply will be placed in the House Libraries.

Secondary information