§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what representations she has received about her decision to cease offering bursaries for those wishing to undertake postgraduate language training at Bradford university; what consultation took place with Bradford university prior to her decision being announced; what evidence she has that bursaries for such courses are available from alternative sources; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. BoswellMy right hon. Friend has received correspondence from Professor David Johns. vice chancellor and principal of Bradford university, and five other letters about the withdrawal of bursary support for students undertaking the postgraduate diploma in interpreting and translating course at Bradford university. The decision was taken as part of the review of public expenditure for 1995–96 in which my right hon. Friend takes account of demands and priorities for spending.
A survey undertaken in January 1994 by the Department indicated that more than 60 per cent. of students on the interpreting and translation courses at the four institutions receiving bursaries through the scheme were undertaking their studies without support from the Department.