HC Deb 28 July 1960 vol 627 c1853
31. Dr. King

asked the Minister of Education if he will now amend the system of training college grants so as to provide dependants grants for mature students taking a three-year course on the same basis as those provided for mature students taking a shortened course.

Sir D. Eccles

As I told the hon. Member for Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Central (Mr. Short) on 14th July, this will be considered in the light of our decisions on the recommendations of the Anderson Committee on grants to students

Dr. King

Is the Minister aware that the present system of dependants' grants penalises just those mature students who are seeking the best qualifications for their future professional career? This reform could be made at very little cost to the Ministry, but with great advantage to the profession and to the students concerned.

Sir D. Eccles

This is an important point, and it will be considered along with the other Anderson recommendations.

Mr. Greenwood

Can the Minister say whether the decision will be made before the next academic year begins? It is very foolish to allow these students to enter the profession with a sense of grievance, which is what they have at the present time.

Sir D. Eccles

I will do my best, but the next academic year begins so soon that we will probably not have finished our considerations.