HC Deb 14 July 1976 vol 915 cc183-4W
Dr. Hampson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if, in the light of his recent changes in tuition fees, he will now explain the working of the parental contribution on maintenance awards; and what are to be the levels of maintenance grant for the academic year starting 1st September 1977.

Mr. Gerry Fowler

The proposals, which are subject to consultation, mean that students with mandatory awards will not be required to pay any tuition fees, irrespective of the level of parental income; this will supersede the present minimum award of £50. The parental contribution scale will continue to apply to grants for maintenance. I expect the rates of maintenance grant for the academic year 1977–78 to be settled in the spring of 1977.