§ 31. Mr. Henigasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he will announce the new levels of student grants for the academic year 1970–71.
§ Mr. Edward ShortStudent grants are not normally reviewed at intervals of less than three years and were last increased in 1968. I received a deputation from the National Union of Students yesterday and listened carefully to their views.
§ Mr. HenigIs my right hon. Friend not aware that there are particular instances of hardship even within the existing level of grant, particularly by virtue of the fact that some students for various reasons are unable to get the full amount at which their parents are assessed? Will he look into this matter and discuss it with the National Union of Students to improve the situation?
§ Mr. ShortI have already told my hon. Friend that I had discussions with the National Union of Students yesterday. I have a great deal of sympathy with students, but I must consider them in education with all the other claims being made on educational resources.
§ Mrs. ThatcherWould the Minister say what level he used to forecast the cost of student grants in the White Paper on Public Expenditure?