HC Deb 18 March 1958 vol 584 cc1086-7
45. Mr. Mulley

asked the Prime Minister if he will recommend the setting up of a Royal Commission to consider the future development of the universities and the selection of students.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

The University Grants Committee is responsible for advising the Government on the future development of the universities to meet national needs. The universities are themselves considering what should be done to deal with the difficulties recently experienced over the selection of students. They are engaged in an ambitious programme of development. In these circumstances, I do not consider that the appointment of a Royal Commission now would be necessary or opportune.

Mr. Mulley

While I appreciate the work of the University Grants Committee, may I ask whether the Prime Minister does not think this so important a problem that it ought to be looked at by a body of the most eminent people who can be got together to consider the future of the universities?

The Prime Minister

At the moment, the essential thing is to let the universities get on with their job as quickly as possible.