City Academies

Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Education and Skills – in the House of Commons at 10:30 am on 27 October 2005.

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Photo of Jacqui Smith Jacqui Smith Minister of State (Schools and 14-19 Learners), Department for Education and Skills, Minister of State (Education and Skills) (Schools and 14-19 Learners) 10:30, 27 October 2005

I share the hon. Gentleman's concerns, but we need to be clear that the specific issue under discussion does not prevent academies from providing community use of their facilities. It does limit their ability to charge for such use, which is an important issue that we are absolutely determined to sort out. That is why, for example, my officials are already working with the academy in the hon. Gentleman's Constituency to consider ways of managing the situation and the practicalities of academies reclaiming VAT and accounting for output tax over the economic lifetime of the building. But I share his concern and I want to ensure that we sort this matter out. We are committed to doing so because we are committed to ensuring that academies play that role at the heart of their communities.

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