HC Deb 02 February 1981 vol 998 cc41-2W
Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans he has to set up a national or regional body to control the financing of colleges and polytechnics; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Boyson

My right hon. and learned Friend is giving urgent consideration to the development of a more effective structure for the funding and management of public sector higher education and hopes to announce his conclusions as soon as possible.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans he has to extend Government control over the courses run by colleges and polytechnics; what consultations he has had about this and with whom; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Boyson

Course control is one aspect of the arrangements for the funding and management of public sector higher education: my right hon. and learned Friend is giving this matter careful consideration and he will in due course be consulting those concerned about his proposals.