While the outturn for 1998 is not avail able, the Estimate for 1998 in respect of the higher education grants scheme is £36 million. With the exception of £890,000 representing an accrued expense from 1997, the 1998 Estimate represents the expected recoupment to local authorities in respect of expenditure to be incurred by them on higher education grants in 1998.
In this regard, I would point out to the Deputy that a payment of £11.2 million was made in December 1997 to enable the local authorities to issue the second instalment of grants due for the 1997-98 academic year, before the end of 1997.
The Estimate in respect of the higher education grants scheme for 1999 as set out in the Abridged Estimates volume is £43.5 million. As the Deputy is aware, the Estimates provisions are only the first stage in the process of determining specific allocations, improvements and initiatives across all sectors of education. This process will extend over the next number of months and I will convey the necessary details as decisions are taken.