§ Mr. Heathcoat-Amoryasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many United Kingdom further education places with free tuition are currently filled by European Community nationals.
Mr. JacksonUnder arrangements announced in Parliament on 1 July 1986, students from European Community (EC) countries attending courses designated for mandatory awards purposes in the United Kingdom are eligible to have their course fees reimbursed by the Government, if they satisfy conditions for eligibility corresponding to those which apply for United Kingdom students. Interim figures for the academic year 1986–87, the first year to which these arrangements apply, indicate that about 3,100 EC students at United Kingdom institutions have had their fees reimbursed.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-Amoryasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) which European Community countries offer free tuition in higher education for members of other European Community countries;
(2) which European Community countries levy charges for fees for higher education students coming from other European Community countries.
Mr. JacksonDrawing on the available information, my understanding of the situation in each member state is as follows:
Belgium
Fees are charged at the "home rate".
Denmark
No fees are charged.
France
All students pay a small subsidised fee plus some local fees relating to institution or subject of study. In addition, a social services contribution may be required.
Federal Republic of Germany
Students may have to pay a social services contribution.
Greece
No fees are charged.
Irish Republic
Fees are charged at the "home rate".
Italy
Fees are charged at the "home rate".
Luxembourg
Only one higher education institution levies a charge, for registration.
Netherlands
No charge is made for tuition but students may be liable for registration and examination fees.
Portugal
No charge is made for tuition or examination but a registration fee may be levied.
Spain
All students must pay a registration fee and may also be liable for tuition fees.
United Kingdom
Fees are reimbursed subject to satisfaction of eligibility conditions.