HC Deb 11 May 1972 vol 836 cc1542-3
22. Dr. Marshall

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will list those provisions of the charter and statutes of the Open University relating to the qualifications required for enrolment.

Mr. van Straubenzee

Clause 4 of its charter gives the university power to prescribe in the statutes, ordinances or regulations the conditions under which persons shall be admitted to the university or to any particular course of study. Statute No. 16 gives the senate power to regulate the admission of persons to courses of study.

Dr. Marshall

Is it now Government policy that school leavers should be enrolled as students in the new Open University?

Mr. van Straubenzee

Such an idea is under discussion. It was first publicly given expression to by the Leader of the Opposition.

Mr. Dormand

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that the provisions are adequate for disabled people taking Open University courses?

Mr. van Straubenzee

I believe so. The guide for applicants makes special reference to disabled persons; but if the hon. Gentleman has a detailed point in mind he knows that I will be happy to look into it.