HC Deb 28 February 1967 vol 742 cc76-7W
Dame Joan Vickers

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will consider the setting up of a consultative committee, with representation of the many organisations connected with overseas students, to advise him on the future conditions, including financial, for overseas students in Great Britain.

Mr. Crosland

As I made clear to the House last Thursday I intend to keep the long-term situation under review in consultation with the Minister of Overseas Development and in collaboration with the universities, the local authorities and other interests concerned.

Dame Joan Vickers

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many students from overseas are Government sponsored; and how many are private, at present studying in universities, polytechnics, technical colleges, and other institutions.

Mr. Crosland

In 1965–66, the latest year for which figures are available, there were 2,615 overseas students studying full-time in U.K. universities and establishments of further education (technical colleges and other grant-aided institutions) who were financed from U.K. public funds. This figure includes Commonwealth Scholars and Bursars, Technical Assistance trainees, British Council Scholars and holders of awards made by publicly-financed organisations.

8,776 overseas students at universities were privately financed. The comparable figure for overseas students at establishments of further education is not available.

Dame Joan Vickers

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether a student from a Commonwealth country holding a British passport and not eligible for a Government grant from his native country will be required to pay the extra fees.

Mr. Crosland

It is intended that the application of higher fees shall depend entirely on the recent residence of a student, irrespective of nationality.