§ 16. Mr. Christopher Priceasked the Minister of Overseas Development whether he will make a statement on the effect of the increase in university and other fees for students from overseas.
§ Mr. PrenticeYes, Sir. I propose to introduce with effect from the academic year 1968–69 a new scheme of awards for students from the developing countries. The awards will cover full fees at universities and other institutions in this country, but not maintenance or travel or other costs. The awards will be held for an average period of two years. Funds for the scheme will be provided over and above those already allocated to overseas aid. I am inviting the universities and other bodies to discuss the details of the scheme with me.
§ Mr. PriceWould my right hon. Friend agree that the new scheme is a very adequate reply to the many criticisms heaped on the head of his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science last January? Can he tell us how many awards will be made?
§ Mr. PrenticeYes, Sir; I am grateful for what my hon. Friend says. The scheme arises from the undertaking given by the ex-Secretary of State for Education and Science that we would keep the whole question under review. I 1230 would expect about 1,000 students a year to qualify for the scheme, which means that when it is fully in operation there may be about 2,000 students in Great Britain under it.
§ Mr. TilneySince this is the best possible form of aid, can the right hon. Gentleman say how much it will cost?
§ Mr. PrenticeI expect it will cost about £500,000 in a full year.