§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Defence what scheme is currently in operation whereby medical students can study for their degree courses whilst at the same time undertaking a short service commission; what is the cost to public funds of assisting a typical student; and what is the minimum period of service required of service men and women who take advantage of such schemes.
§ Mr. FreemanAll three services currently offer cadetships to medical students. The cadetship leads to a short service commission of six years on the active list and a further two years on the reserve. The total cost to public funds of assisting a typical student in his cadetship is in the region of £17,000 after repayment of various grants and external earnings in the pre-registration year.
As with all types of SSC, the individual also receives a gratuity paid at the end of his active service, based on the number of years of active service rendered.