§ Mr. DuncanTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if she will make a statement on the support that will be available to students through mandatory awards and student loans in the academic year 1996–97. [3499]
§ Mr. ForthMy right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced on 28 November that the total level of support available to students through the main rates of grant and loan together in 1996–97 will be 2.6 per cent. higher than for 1995–96, in line with forecast price increases. I am placing a memorandum in the Library giving full details of the new grant and fee rates for 1996–97. These rates will be incorporated in the Education (Student Loans) Regulations to be laid before Parliament in due course.