Government amendment No. 1: In page 21, between lines 45 and 46, to insert the following subsection: "(8) The Minister shall, in deciding whether or not to give a direction or his or her consent under this section, having regard to-(a ) the existing provision of, and future need for, education and training in the area in which the education or training provider is situated, (b ) the desirability of providing a diverse range of education and training opportunities for students and learners, (c ) the optimum use of available resources, (d ) the desirability of securing value for money in respect of arrangements entered into or support services provided under this section, (e ) the availability of expertise, experience and skills in the education and training board and education or training provider concerned, (f ) the capacity of the education and training board concerned to enter into arrangements or provide support services under this section, and (g ) the opportunity to share resources, expertise, experience and skills for the benefit of students or learners.".