To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what changes (a) have been made and (b) are planned for the membership of the Learning and Skills Council in preparation for the new powers planned for the council on the closure and establishment of further education colleges; and if he will make a statement. (110658)

We have no plans to change the membership of the Learning and Skills Council as a consequence of the proposed powers in the Further Education and Training Bill for the closure and establishment of further education colleges. However, as part of the streamlining of the LSC to make it more streamlined and responsive, clause 1 of the Bill proposes a reduction in the minimum size of the National Council. As part of its normal business the LSC reviews, from time to time, the composition of its council. The provision in the Bill will give the LSC flexibility when it carries out these reviews. The LSC National Council's membership reflects both its role for the consumers of the learning system—learners and employers—as well as for those who deliver it.