HC Deb 11 November 1954 vol 532 cc149-50W
68. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Education how many grants are at present being made for training for various professional purposes; what is the total annual amount of such grants; how far there is an obligation for such students to continue in the profession for which such grant is made and in which qualification is obtained; how many fail to continue in such professions; and whether he is satisfied with the method and arrangements for making such grants.

Sir D. Eccles

At the beginning of the academic year 1953–54, the number of new awards made by local education authorities for courses at establishments of further education (other than universities and university colleges) was 6,389. I do not impose any obligation on State scholars or on holders of further education and training scheme awards to continue in the profession in which their qualifications have been obtained, nor, so far as I am aware, do local education authorities. I have no reason to think that the present arrangements are generally working unsatisfactorily; but there are certain aspects of them which I have under review.