§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what was the average grant paid to students in higher education at constant prices in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RichardsThe average net maintenance grant, excluding any payment for fees paid by local education authorities in Wales to mandatory award holders in the academic years 1988–89 to 1992–93, the latest year available, is as follows. Since 1990–91, eligible students have been able to apply for a student loan to supplement their grant; loans have increased the resources available to students for their living costs.
Average maintenance grants in constant prices 1to holders of mandatory awards: Wales: 1988–89 to 1992–93 Academic year £ 1988–89 1,830 1989–90 1,850 1990–91 1,740 1991–92 1,690 1992–93 1,690 1 Based on the September retail prices index, excluding mortgage interest payments, at the beginning of each academic year.