§ 11. Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is her policy towards educational maintenance allowances.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonThis matter is still under review. My right hon. Friend is aware of the deficiencies in the existing arrangements.
§ Mr. BennettDoes not my hon. Friend agree that it is rather unsatisfactory that this matter has been under review for some months? It is an absurd situation when 16- to 18-year-olds stay at school and get no help unless their parents are close to the poverty line but those who leave school and do nothing receive £7 a week supplementary benefit.
§ Miss JacksonWe are aware of the deficiencies in the existing arrangements and we are also aware of the need to encourage more children to stay on at school. These matters are under consideration with the recognition of all the problems involved, both to children and to public expenditure by local authorities and the central Government.
§ Miss FookesHow many years does the Department of Education and Science require to come to a decision? The Expenditure Committee came forward with a report on this matter some years ago.
§ Miss JacksonWith respect, the Expenditure Committee makes recommendations but it does not have to find the money to implement them.