Cutting Government subvention for the English Schools Foundation does not necessarily mean a corresponding increase in tuition fees.

This was the message from Secretary for Education & Manpower Arthur Li during a meeting with the Foundation today.

Professor Li said the Government wants to examine the scope for cutting cost in the operation of Foundation schools and is prepared to share any savings achieved with parents.

He stressed every publicly-funded organisation, including the Foundation, should review its cost structure and find ways of increasing cost-efficiency.

Foundation representatives explained their role in education and stressed the importance of continuing Government subvention.

Expressing the Government's appreciation of the Foundation's work, Professor Li welcomed further meetings with it to examine expenditure and assess whether the current rate of fees and subvention are fully justified.