§ Mr. WillisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what the current age limit is for students to have access to student loans; and what plans he has to increase the age limit during the next three years. [61821]
§ Mr. MudieFor the 1998–99 academic year, a student must be aged under 50 at the start of his or her course in order to be eligible for a student loan.
As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment announced on 8 June this year, we plan to extend eligibility for loans to those students aged 50 to 54 at the start of their courses who plan to return to employment.
This extension will take effect from the 1999–2000 academic year. It will apply to students starting courses in 1999–2000. It will also apply to students who started courses in 1998–99, except those (such as gap year students) who are entitled to continue receiving maintenance grants and loans under the previous arrangements.
We are currently considering the arrangements in more detail and will provide full information for students early in 1999.