To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how much funding has been allocated to the Social Mobility Commission; by what mechanisms its staff will be appointed; how many staff will be employed by that Commission; and what the terms of reference are of that Commission. (318120)

In ‘Unleashing Aspirations', published on 18 January 2010, the Government set out their response to the final report of the Panel on Fair Access to the Professions, and agreed to establish a Social Mobility Commission. It will give expert advice to Government and report on progress towards a fairer, more mobile society.

A transition team has been set up within the Cabinet Office to make the necessary preparations for this Commission. The transition team will develop the detail of the Commission's terms of reference, funding and work programme. It will also advise on the appointment of members and the selection criteria for any appointments to the Commission.

The budget for the Social Mobility Commission has yet to be established, and will form part of the consideration of the transition team.