Press Release

17 June 2005

Paice Challenges Minister Over Adult Learning Cuts

Jim Paice, MP for South East Cambridgeshire, has written to the Education Secretary Ruth Kelly for answers over cuts in adult education funding which has led to the closure of the Old White Lion in Ely and the adult education centre at Littleport Primary School.

Jim said: “The current funding crisis in adult education has already forced the closure of adult learning centres in Ely and Littleport and is predicted to deepen, forcing further closures or much higher fees. I am obviously very concerned about this and anxious for answers from the Education Secretary.

“Older students rely on adult education courses to gain qualifications they missed out on at school or to improve their skills for work yet many of these will simply disappear unless the Government takes urgent action.”