2.
asked the Secretary of State for Wales what organisations and institutions have responded to his consultative document on the management of higher education in the maintained sector in Wales published in August; and if he will now announce his decision on the proposed Welsh national body, and set out its terms of reference.
Comments on the consultative document have been received from 11 bodies. These comments are being taken fully into account in consideration of this matter, which is still proceeding.
Will the Under-Secretary of State say whether it is his Department's intention to introduce the necessary legislation this Session in order to set up the proposed Welsh national body to co-ordinate higher education? Will he re-examine the terms of reference of the proposed body to ensure that they include the expansion of Welsh medium teaching at post-school level?
The hon. Member might recollect that the remit of the consultative document included such a term of reference. I am sure that the legislation will emerge.