To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills when he expects a decision to be taken on funding for the development of the National Star College; and if he will take steps to ensure that funding is provided for the development of the college planned before the capital expenditure programme of the Learning and Skills Council was put on hold. (302787)

Under the Learning and Skills Act 2000, Ministers may not direct the Learning and Skills Council in its decision making regards individual capital approvals.

However, I met with the Principal of National Star on 9 July and agreed to ask the LSC to explore potential options for the college to move forward. This work continues and I can confirm that for the future capital programme, the LSC is working with the Association of Colleges College Reference Panel to consider how to prioritise future investment.