Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jim Cunningham and Nick Boles

Tuesday 2nd February 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jim Cunningham (Coventry South) (Lab)]

5. What estimate he has made of the likely change in the number of adult learners between 2016 and 2020.

[The Minister for Skills (Nick Boles)]

Overall funding for adult learners will increase by 30% in real terms between 2016 and 2020. As a result, we expect to see many more adults taking advantage of the opportunities presented by apprenticeships and further education courses.

[Mr Cunningham]

I have received a number of representations from local colleges in Coventry worried about their future because of budget cuts. What assurances can the Minister give them that funding will be maintained?

[Nick Boles]

I am delighted to be able to reassure the hon. Gentleman that, while concerns were indeed expressed to us in a debate in this House about the possible threat of such cuts, the Chancellor did not cut funding for adult learners in the spending review. In fact, he increased it. As I said, by the end of this Parliament, it will be 30% higher in real terms and at its highest level in cash terms ever in our history.