To ask the Secretary of State for Employment if the Training Agency has researched the use of the communication support services for deaf trainees; and if he will make it his policy that the provision of these services will be maintained by the training and enterprise councils.

My Department has conducted no formal research specifically into the use of communication support services for deaf trainees. Training and enterprise councils are required to provide a communication service for deaf trainees, together with other relevant support to trainees with disabilities where appropriate.