§ 27. Mr. N. Macphersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent he obtains uniformity in the method of assessing the needs of, and the scales of payment to, whole-time students at universities, central institutions, training and theological colleges qualifying for bursaries under the Education Authority Bursaries (Scotland) Regulations, 1949 and 1952, in respect of books, instruments, tools and materials, of meals, of special clothing, and of expenses arising out of the membership of clubs or societies.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartThe regulations do not impose uniformity upon education authorities in the assessment of students' need in this field. Each authority is required to take into acount the sums which, in its opinion, are reasonably required by students for these purposes.
§ Mr. MacphersonWhile the regulations may not require it, is it not obvious that the students' needs are very much the same for the same categories of students; and would not my hon. Friend encourage local authorities to consult with the university authorities so as to get a clear idea what the various categories of expenditure for different categories of students may be and persuade them to act upon the advice?
§ Mr. StewartI think they do make contact in that way, but my hon. Friend's suggestion will be borne in mind.