HC Deb 30 January 1930 vol 234 cc1161-2
41. Mr. FREEMAN

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is satisfied with the results of the pro vision of State scholarships; and whether he will consider enlarging the number awarded each year?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

The system of State scholarships at Universities for pupils from State-aided secondary schools was introduced in 1920 and, after a short suspension, was reintroduced in 1925. We have thus had nearly 10 years' experience of the working of the system, and I have no hesitation in saying that it has fully justified itself. There are 200 State scholarships awarded annually. Only 11 per cent. of the scholars have failed to obtain either a first or second class honours degree. The subsequent careers of scholars who have already finished their course have, I have ascertained, been generally very satisfactory. Since 1920 the number of entrants for the scholarship examinations has increased from 1,090 to 3,919 in 1929. I have made inquiries from the examining bodies who award the State scholarship, and I am assured that the number of candidates at their examinations who reach the standard for a scholarship is considerably greater than the number of scholarships available. I accordingly propose to increase the number of scholarships available for award each year by 50 per cent., making the number 300 instead of 200. This increase will come into effect this summer.

Mr. FREEMAN

Could not the conditions under which these -scholarships are awarded also be improved?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

I should be glad of any suggestion with regard to details in connection with that matter. There may be some improvements possible.

Mr. HANNON

Can the Minister indicate to the House what will be the cost of this scheme?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

If the hon. Gentleman puts down a question, I will give him the information.

Mr. T. LEWIS

Will the Minister consider the desirability of allowing these scholarships to be taken at any college or University, or University college?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

I will consider that question.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the country can afford these bursaries?

Sir C. TREVELYAN

Certainly, and the Chancellor of the Exchequer is satisfied.