HC Deb 24 May 1974 vol 874 cc283-4W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he can now say whether the Government intend to continue the present system of awards for postgraduate studies at universities and polytechnics.

Mr. Gerry Fowler

Yes. The rates and conditions of these awards are now being reviewed, and my right hon. Friend will make a statement as soon as possible.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he can now say whether the Government intend to institute a system of mandatory awards for students studying in the colleges of further education, colleges of art, and colleges of technology.

Mr. Gerry Fowler

Mandatory awards are already available for students in these institutions taking first degree and designated comparable courses, including a course for the Diploma in Art and Design. My right hon. Friend is considering whether the scope of mandatory awards should be extended to cover Higher National Diploma courses as well as the new Diploma of Higher Education courses.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he can now state whether it is the intention of the Government to make awards for the study of the Higher National Diploma mandatory for the next academic year.

Mr. Gerry Fowler

My right hon. Friend is considering this in relation to the academic year 1975–76.