HC Deb 10 June 1980 vol 986 cc287-8
10. Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many schools have had their applications to take part in the assisted places scheme approved.

Dr. Boyson

None, Sir. As my right hon. and learned Friend indicated in his reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Garston (Mr. Thornton) on 3 June, it was only last week that schools were invited to make formal application to participate in the scheme. I know that the hon. Gentleman has great faith in the speed with which the Government act, but we do not expect replies before 7 July.

Mr. Beith

When the schools are eventually chosen, how can the Minister justify the fact that a family with an income of £90 a week will not have to pay a penny towards the cost of an assisted place whereas a family with an income of £56 a week will have to pay every penny of the cost of school meals?

Dr. Boyson

I, too, have been looking at the scale of contributions. It is interesting,, in view of statements that are made by Labour Members about this Government helping the rich, to note that a family with an income of £10,000 a year—which at present is only £2,000 more than the average family income——

Mr. William Hamilton

"Only" !

Dr. Boyson

Well, I know that innumeracy is rife on the Labour Benches, but a family with two children and with an income £10,000 will not get one penny of help, under the old direct grant system, with the fees that are being charged at present. This scale is to ensure that people on average or low incomes will be able to give their children that opportunity.