§ Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will amend the student awards regulations so that married women are no longer dependent on their husband's income for grant purposes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythNo. The spouse contribution (from husband or wife, as appropriate) reflects the principle that a family should contribute to the cost of the higher education of its members, according to its ability to do so. The same principle underlies the requirement for a parental contribution in respect of dependent children undertaking higher education; it is a basic element of the present awards system.