HC Deb 10 April 1984 vol 58 cc163-4W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received concerning the number of places available on courses in colour technology.

Mr. Brooke

In 1982 the Society of Dyers and Colourists wrote to my predecessor about future provision in education establishments for colour science and technology. These views were drawn to the attention of the National Advisory Body for Local Authority Higher Education (NAB) in the context of its review of course provision in textile technology. I understand that this review is nearing completion.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many places have been available for undergraduate students to study colour chemistry in each of the years since 1974; and which polytechnics or universities ran the course in each of these years.

Mr. Brooke

Between 1974–75 and 1982–83 the handbooks of the Universities Central Council on Admissions indicate that the Universities of Bradford and Leeds and the University of Manchester institute of science and technology offered undergraduate courses in colour chemistry. From 1983–84, only Leeds has continued to do so. In addition, since 1974–75 the University of Salford has offered a degree course in applied chemistry culminating in specialist options, one of which is colour chemistry. Degree courses in colour chemistry have not been offered in the polytechnics. Information in respect of student entry to individual courses in universities is not readily available.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many places are currently available on courses leading to the Society of Dyers and Colourers certificate in colouration; and at which colleges these courses are run.

Mr. Brooke

Information is not available on places in further education establishments. However, in November 1982 there were 47 students on courses at further education establishments in England leading to the Associateship of the Society of Dyers and Colourists. These students attended one of the following four establishmentsLeicester polytechnic, Manchester polytechnic, Trent polytechnic, Bradford and Ilkley community college.