§ Mr. Andrew WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to review the Scottish Education Department grant regulations which prohibit individuals who hold a higher national diploma qualification from receiving a full grant for a university course.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythUnder present rules, eligible students who complete a course leading to a higher national diploma may qualify for a student's allowance for the third and any subsequent year of a full-time degree or comparable course.
With effect from session 1989–90, my right hon. and learned Friend has decided that those higher national diplomates who wish to proceed to undertake full-time studies at degree level in the sciences, technology, or certain teacher shortage subjects will, exceptionally, be entitled to grant assistance for the second and any subsequent year of a degree or comparable course.