HC Deb 30 July 1952 vol 504 cc154-5W
Mr. M. MacPherson

asked the Secretary of State for War how many civilians will be admitted to study at the Military College of Science, Shrivenham; how they will be selected; what pay, allowances, or grants they will receive during their courses, and how these will compare with the awards payable to undergraduates in other colleges or universities; and to what extent such students will be under obligation to enter Government service on completion of their courses.

Mr. Head

The Army does not send civilians on these courses, but 10 vacancies have been made available on the Young Officers' Degree Course starting in October, 1952, for civilian students sponsored by other Departments for training for the Scientific Civil Service. Selection has been by interview. Tuition fees will be waived by the War Office and the sponsoring Departments will pay the examination fees of their students and, in addition, a basic maintenance grant equivalent to the highest rate paid to students who go to Oxford or Cambridge.

A student who continues his studies at the College during vacations may qualify for an additional maintenance allowance. If he has a wife, children or other dependants, he may also obtain a maintenance allowance on their account. A student will be expected before selection to state that it is his intention to enter the Scientific Civil Service open competition on completing the course and to accept any suitable offer of appointment made to him; and, during training, to inform the authorities if his intentions change.