§ Sir E. Graham-Littleasked the Chanceller of the Exchequer whether he can now make any statement with regard to the grant he proposes to allocate in the coming financial year to the universities; and whether He will give consideration to their special need occasioned by the destruction and damage to many of their schools and central buildings?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir. A year ago I informed the House that in view of the vital part played by the universities in the life of the community, the importance of maintaining so far as possible standards30W of university education, and the essential contribution of the universities towards the national effort, the provision for 1941 would be maintained at the same level as that for 1939 and 1940, namely, £2,149,000. The impact of the war on university finance has so far been less severe than was expected. On the other hand, while the repair of physical damage resulting from enemy action can be dealt with under the existing War Damage legislation, the repair of war damage is by no means the only problem, involving large demands on university funds, which will arise on the conclusion of hostilities. With these considerations in mind the Government, after considering a report from the University Grants Committee which reviewed the whole situation, have decided to maintain the provision for 1942 at its existing level.