HC Deb 30 May 1946 vol 423 cc1321-2
7. Mr. Corlett

asked the Minister of Education what steps she proposes to take to ensure that a fair proportion of the new scholarship provision is spread out among the seven universities and to reduce the present high proportion of State scholars going to Oxford, Cambridge and London.

Miss Wilkinson

The supplemental awards, for which the new scholarship arrangements provide, will be attached to the open scholarships and exhibitions awarded by the several Universities. I am anxious to ensure a better distribution of State scholars among the various Universities, and in the further consideration which I am giving to the question of awards to University students, I will certainly keep in mind the point to which my hon. Friend has drawn attention.

Mr. Wilson Harris

In the event of a State scholar desiring to go to Cambridge or, less comprehensibly, to Oxford, would the right hon. Lady frustrate that laudable desire?

Miss Wilkinson

It is not a question of frustrating the desires of any individuals. The hon. Gentleman will realise that it is really not a healthy state of affairs that, as at present, nine out of every ten State scholars somehow get themselves to Oxford, Cambridge or London. It is only wise, I think, if we are to bring up the standard of the others, that the cream should be more widely spread.