HC Deb 13 March 1989 vol 149 cc11-2W
Mr. Beggs

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action is being taken to ensure the future availability of places for Northern Ireland students in veterinary schools in the United Kingdom generally and in Scotland in particular; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Viggers

The University Grants Committee set up a working group under Sir Ralph Riley in 1987to consider the provision of veterinary education in the six veterinary schools in Great Britain and the scope for its rationalisation and to make recommendations".

It reported in January 1989. Officials of the Department of Agriculture are considering the implications of the report for Northern Ireland's future needs on veterinary manpower and training.