HC Deb 16 March 1967 vol 743 cc695-6
17. Sir G. Sinclair

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what representations he has had from Commonwealth Governments about the recent increase in overseas students' fees in relation to aid, technical assistance and other forms of assistance which are the concern of his Department.

Mr. Oram

There have been certain indications of concern from Commonwealth countries concerning the effects of the increase of overseas students fees, but we have received no direct representations from Governments.

Sir G. Sinclair

Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that the lack of consultation with overseas Governments before this step was taken has dislocated their programmes of sending students to this country and has disrupted the plans of private families all over the world who had made arrangements to send their children to universities and technical colleges in Britain?

Mr. Oram

That supplementary question would be more appropriately directed to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science, but the evidence so far received by my Ministry is that there is not the degree of concern that the hon. Gentleman suggests.

Mr. David Steel

Will the hon. Gentleman confirm that the Minister of Overseas Development and his Department were fully consulted before the Secretary of State for Education and Science made his decision about increasing fees? Will he also tell us whether the hardship fund that is to be established will fall within the limit of overseas aid that has already been laid down by the Government?

Mr. Oram

We were fully consulted and there will be additional funds to take account of the hardship.