§ 16. Mr. Easthamasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he is yet in a position to make an announcement about his proposals regarding the future of the system of reimbursing students' travel costs.
§ Mr. BrookeNo, Sir.
§ Mr. EasthamIf, at some future date, the Minister makes a proposal to the House about changing the scheme will he ensure that there is no oversimplification for administrative purposes which may be expensive for the student? Usually, whenever a change is made to any scheme, it is the recipients who suffer.
§ Mr. BrookeDetails of new travel arrangements will be announced as soon as they have been settled after consultation with the National Union of Students. Any change that achieves a worthwhile simplification of the present arrangements will inevitably involve an element of rough justice.
§ Mr. Andrew F. BennettWill not many students be alarmed by those proposals? Does the Minister agree that that "rough justice" could well penalise those students who live at home and travel considerable distances to colleges and universities?
§ Mr. BrookeThe hon. Gentleman's point will be taken into account by the Government in formulating their arrangements.