§ 5. Mr. Bagierasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what progress has been made with the review of the overseas students welfare expansion programme announced last year; and what conclusions have been reached regarding the special difficulties of married students from overseas.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesAs the £3 million provided by the Government in 1961 for this programme is now fully committed, the Government have decided to make available another £2½ million for hostel projects so that the scheme may continue for the next few years at approximately its present rate of progress.
My right hon. Friend has also agreed that henceforth up to 30 per cent. of the total accommodation provided under this scheme may be made available for married students, their wives and children.
§ Mr. BagierWhile thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him whether he is satisfied with the progress that is being made? Would he care to say what type of married accommodation is being provided?
§ Mr. HughesYes, Sir. At the beginning of January, 1966, a total of 88 projects were approved comprising 3,858 places of which 2,017 are in London. Another nine schemes now under consideration are likely to provide a further 369 places. If all these projects are completed the total beds provided will amount to 4,227 at a cost of £2,893,278. These will include 988 places for married students and their wives. The number of places actually available is 2,456 of which 850 are for married students, and the total grants paid amount to £1,561,130.
§ Mr. SpeakerThat answer was a little long in reply to a supplementary question.