§ Lord Walton of Detchantasked Her Majesty's Government:
What progress they have made with the review of higher education announced last year, and when they hope to be able to make an announcement with particular reference to revised funding mechanisms.
§ Lord Henley:The Government's review of higher education is looking at wider issues than funding mechanisms. We have completed preliminary consultations on the purposes of higher education with a view to determining its appropriate size and shape at the turn of the century and beyond. We are now considering the hundred or so responses received and other evidence. We recognise the importance of higher education to the country's future economy and society, and do not intend to rush the review by setting arbitrary deadlines.