HC Deb 28 October 1997 vol 299 c720 4.14 pm
Dr. Liam Fox (Woodspring)

On a point of order, Madam Speaker. You may be aware from this morning's press of an incomprehensible decision to fund the fourth year of higher education in Scotland only for Scots and for non-British European Union nationals. That means that British taxpayers' money would be used to subsidise French, Italian or Greek students attending university in Scotland, but not those from England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Has either the Secretary of State for Scotland or the Secretary of State for Education and Employment attempted to make a statement on the issue, which involves repellant bigotry, appalling politics and dubious legality?

Madam Speaker

I have not been told that any statement of that nature is to be made. Hon. Members of course keep an eye on the annunciator. Statements are always announced well in advance—well before lunchtime—so that we are aware of anything that might be taking place.