HC Deb 23 June 1975 vol 894 cc28-9W
Dr. Hampson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if, in view of the cut-back in discretionary grants forced on local education authorities by the economic situation, he will give encouragement to students to study for professional qualifications through correspondence courses by recognising appropriate courses as eligible for grant aid.

Mr. Mulley

I do not think that it would be appropriate for me to give direct assistance to those private colleges which run such courses or to the students in question.

Dr. Hampson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if, in view of the fact that about half of the people engaged in accountancy and banking have gained professional qualifications by correspondence courses, and the fact that home 160,000 students are studying for business qualifications by this method, he will consider adding to the Business Education Council someone with direct experience of correspondence education.

Mr. Mulley

The Business Education Council already has appropriate experience available within this field, Mr. J. F. Phillips, its Vice-Chairman, is also a member of the Council for the Accreditation of Correspodence Colleges and will become chairman of that body next month.