§ 23. Ross CranstonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what steps she is taking to encourage university applications from pupils from lower socio-economic groups. [56368]
§ Margaret HodgeI refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave earlier to my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase (Tony Wright).
§ 24. Mr. HopkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the number of university applications for the coming year. [56369]
§ 29. Mr. GroganTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the number of university applications for the next academic year. [56374]
§ Margaret HodgeThe latest data published by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service show that the number of applications is 1.5 per cent. higher than last year. This very welcome and indicates the strength of demand for British higher education. The 4.6 per cent. rise in applications from mature entrants is particularly welcome since we have introduced generous additional support for student parents, including a child care grant and a travel and equipment grant.