HC Deb 28 February 1969 vol 778 cc372-3W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence with which university he is negotiating with a view to arranging that a complete year of uninterrupted study should be considered as the first year of a three-year degree course; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Reynolds

I am not yet in a position to make a statement about the negotiations on which we are currently engaged with universities, but I intend to do so in due course.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his negotiations with the universities to increase the number of university cadetships for the Royal Air Force.

Mr. Reynolds

An increase in the number of R.A.F. university cadetships does not involve direct negotiations with university authorities, though they have been kept fully informed of the R.A.F.'s intentions to expand recruiting in the graduate field. Under this scheme a young man's entry into university remains dependent entirely on his academic achievements and his personal acceptance by the university authorities. Once accepted for a full-time course of study leading to the award of a first degree, he may then apply to compete for an R.A.F. university cadetship.