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Further Education and Training Bill [HL]

I thank the Minister for his reply. On the first group of amendments, he was concerned that what we have suggested would roll over from one spending review to the next, but there must be some form of words acceptable to the Treasury that would give that roll-over funding provision for a three-year budgetary process. I have no doubt that that would be helpful to the regional learning and skills councils in their own planning. It cannot be right that they just fall off a cliff at the end of a spending review period. On Amendment No. 12, I am somewhat reassured by what the noble Lord said in his reply, but stated priorities are not quite the same as having something in the Bill. We would have expected, if our amendment were agreed to, that the national Learning and Skills Council would take advice from the regional councils on their needs in relation to learners with special needs before deciding on the proportion of the budget that should be spent on them. We are very aware that for some of these learners, learning costs are higher. It is a little more expensive sometimes if special equipment has to be provided. We are aware that transport to a place of learning can be a major barrier to some learners with special needs, particularly physical disabilities. It is very important that an appropriate amount of money is made available for that and that it is given priority. Certainly, we have some reassurance in the Minister’s words, but we will have to consult those who represent learners with special needs before deciding whether to bring this back on Report. In the mean time, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. [Amendments Nos. 11 and 12 not moved.]