asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what study she has made of the representations made to her by the United Kingdom Federation of Jazz Bands; and if she is now able to make a statement on the awarding of grants to jazz bands as a recognised youth activity.

My right hon. Friend has considered the federation's representations and is prepared in principle to make a grant towards its expenditure. The Department will make a firm offer after it has obtained more details of the federation's plans.