§ 7. Mr. Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will publish in HANSARD details of the schemes whereby students from other countries are allowed to remain here for study purposes at our universities and 1601 educational establishments; what restrictions are placed on these students so far as the period of stay and the taking up part-time employment are concerned; and to what extent they have to give some guarantee of financial support.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeMy Department does not administer any schemes in this connection. Students from abroad are given generous facilities to pursue whole-time study at reputable educational establishments in this country, provided that they possess or have been guaranteed adequate funds to cover their period of stay and make satisfactory progress with their studies. They are normally expected to return to their own country when their studies have been completed and are usually given successive extensions of stay throughout the duration of their prescribed courses; but they are not allowed to engage in any kind of employment, except during vacations.
§ Mr. LewisWhile I thank the Home Secretary for that reply, may I ask him whether he can give an assurance that these students are not compelled to return to their country at the request of their Governments where there is a possibility of political persecution, but are entitled to remain here and continue their studies?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeMost certainly, Sir. In no circumstances would we do anything of that kind.