To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent steps his Department has taken to facilitate the establishment of the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills; and if he will make a statement. (282468)

[holding answer 29 June 2009]: The Creative and Cultural Skills National Skills Academy was established in April 2008 to tackle technical skills shortages in the Creative Industries. Since its inception, this Government have invested £4.2 million in the establishment of this Academy.

I am aware that the Academy has also submitted a capital proposal to the Learning and Skills Council (LSC). Government remain committed to providing capital support to National Skills Academies through the LSC's Specialisation Fund which is separate to the more general FE Capital fund. We will make an announcement soon.

To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills for what reasons the provision of funding for the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills in Thurrock has been delayed; and if he will make a statement. (282469)

[holding answer 29 June 2009]: In December 2008, the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) undertook a detailed review of its capital programmes, and reported in March this year that there were more projects than funding available. While the LSC undertook this review, it was necessary to put all capital project applications on hold.

An announcement was made on the 26 June about the future capital arrangements for the FE college sector. Government remain committed to providing capital support to NSAs through the LSC's Specialisation Fund which is separate to the more general FE Capital Fund. We will make an announcement soon.