HC Deb 08 February 1973 vol 850 cc149-50W
21. Mr. David Clark

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what was the maximum grant payable to a first degree student at a redbrick university, living away from home, in January 1963 and in January 1973; and what is the latter amount expressed in 1963 purchasing power.

Mrs. Thatcher

In January 1963 the ordinary maintenance grant for a student at a university other than Oxford, Cambridge or London was £300 if he lived in lodgings and £320 if he lived in a hall of residence. In January 1973 the rate of grant was £445 in both cases. The latter figure reduced in proportion to the difference in the retail price index between these dates would become about £268.

Mr. Jeffrey Archer

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what was the value of a university student's maintenance award in the years 1962 and 1972, respectively; and what sum at 31st December 1972 would have given the equivalent spending power to the 1962 grant.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

For 1962–63 the standard maintenance grant for a student at a university other than Oxford, Cambridge or London was £320 if he lived in a hall of residence, £300 if he lived in lodgings and £240 if he lived at home with his parents. For 1972–73 the equivalent figures are £445 for living in halls of residence or lodgings and £355 for living at home. The 1962–63 figures increased in proportion to the changes in the retail price index over the period December 1972 would become £532, £499, and £399 respectively.