I propose to take Questions Nos. 8 and 26 together.
The programme for Government, An Action Programme for the Millennium, provides a commitment to the introduction of equitable support of students attending PLC courses. The commitment in the programme for Government reflects the importance which the Government attaches to students in the PLC sector. This is the first time issues of concern to PLCs have been put firmly on the political agenda and on a Government programme for action.
There is no reliable detailed information available to my Department in relation to the overall costs, including living expenses, to a student of attendance at a PLC course. Such costs could vary widely. The cost of introducing a support scheme for PLC students on lines similar to the higher education grants scheme would be of the order of £13 million per annum.
My Department is providing in excess of £39 million this year towards the running costs of PLC courses which are playing a key role in preparing young people for employment and further education and training. These courses are a significant element of the Government's response to meeting the skill needs of the economy. Their importance is reflected in the Government's intention to introduce an equitable support scheme for the students in this sector.
In this context I recently announced details of a national initiative to provide training to meet the skill needs of the international teleservices industry. The PLC sector is central to this initiative with over 700 places being approved. As this new initiative involves extensive placement abroad, a new student support scheme is being introduced towards the cost of the overseas placement.
Through action to properly resource different aspects of their work, I am confident the Government will consistently demonstrate its commitment to recognising and promoting the role of the PLC sector.