HC Deb 11 December 1969 vol 793 cc610-1
3. Mr. Boyden

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he is taking to ensure that local education authorities are using consistent criteria for the award of grants to mature students at the adult residential colleges.

The Minister of State, Department of Education and Science (Mr. Gerry Fowler)

I hope that all local education authorities will be prepared, in accordance with the advice given in a circular dated April, 1966, to make awards, at uniform rates, to suitable students undertaking courses of a year or more at adult residential colleges. My right hon. Friend, however, has no power to override the exercise of their discretion.

Mr. Boyden

Is my hon. Friend aware that the present situation is chaotic, with one local authority giving awards only to those over 30 while a neighbouring authority is giving awards only to those under 25? Is he further aware that some local authorities are demanding G.C.Es., a policy which is entirely opposite to that declared when the residential colleges were established?

Would my hon. Friend consider sending out a revised circular, and, if that does not work, consider increasing the number of mature State scholarships for adult students to ensure that places are not left empty in the residential colleges which the Government have established?

Mr. Fowler

I agree that there are variations in policy, and this situation is to be deplored. This matter has been drawn to the attention of local authorities. I will certainly consider whether it would be helpful to issue a revised circular.