Nick Harvey, MP for North Devon, says "Following my lobbying on behalf of the University and College Union's Petroc petition, John Hayes, the Minister of State for Further Education, reassures me that during this time of economic challenge, it will be possible to support the Further Education sector".
The Petroc petition, led by Ralph Hodgson, sought to highlight the various problems that North Devon's FE sector would face in light of potential cuts to spending. Nick Harvey has been keen to lend support to this petition, signed by 200 students and staff at Petroc, in the hope that the college can continue to provide an outstanding service to North Devon.
John Hayes said that "the forthcoming comprehensive spending review will have an impact upon the resources available to the FE sector; although I would not want to speculate in advance on the extent of that impact. I can, however, assure you that whatever settlement is ultimately reached, I will strive to maximise the impact that those resources have on the long-term sustainability of the FE system".
Nick Harvey responded that "the Minister assures me that funding is being prioritised in areas within the FE system, for example in supporting increased investment in apprenticeships and FE Capital Projects. I have supported the college in seeking funding from this and I have met with the Principal of Petroc College. I know that the college has a proven track record of providing an excellent return on funding provided".
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