Meeting needs vs spending money?

[streakybacon]

Can anyone tell me which takes priority, given that so many LAs are strapped for cash at the moment?

I'm anticipating a tussle with my LA over funding for specialist 16+ provision (part time with mainstream sixth form for the rest). He has an EHCP with all relevant needs listed. Specialist college has assessed him and offered a place - they are confident they can meet his needs. There is no suitable alternative locally - I've made extensive enquiries and done some visits and nothing else comes close.

COP says LAs have to name the parent/child's choice of setting unless it would 'represent an inefficient use of resources' (ie, money).

My question is, which takes priority - meeting the child/young person's needs as specified in the EHCP, or saving public money? Can the LA legitimately say "We know he has these needs, but we can't afford to pay". I am concerned that they might name a setting that can't support him and he'll have to go. He has been home educated up till now (last six years) but we won't be able to continue this at A level, so that's not an option.

We are meeting for a review in March and I want to be prepared with the right responses if this is put to me, which I suspect it might.

Thanks.

They can't use cost to justify an unsuitable placement. According to IPSEA:

Cost may be used as a reason for refusing a request for a particular school /institution where a LA can show that another school or institution can meet the needs of a child or young person more cheaply

Can the LA legitimately say "We know he has these needs, but we can't afford to pay".
NO
Simples

Thank you