HC Deb 14 March 1968 vol 760 cc1605-6
31. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what percentage of students in Scottish and English universities, respectively, were from overseas, at the most recent date for which information is available.

Mrs. Shirley Williams

In autumn 1967, 5.5 per cent. in Scotland and 7.7 per cent. in England.

Mr. Taylor

In view of the relatively high proportion which Scottish universities take of overseas students and of students from England, would the hon. Lady be prepared to discuss with some English universities the possibility of the Scottish Certificate of Education being accepted as a qualification for university entrance?

Mrs. Williams

The hon. Gentleman will know that the Scottish Certificate is accepted by many English universities, although I am aware that there are one or two problems. Second, I must repeat that the proportion of Scottish students who go to university is well above the proportion of English.

Mr. William Hamilton

Is my hon. Friend aware that people interested in Scottish education are very proud that the Scottish universities cater for a proportion of overseas students, and that we wish we could take more?

Mrs. Williams

Following those remarks, I must pay tribute to the considerable welcome which is given to overseas students in Scotland.