HC Deb 07 March 1979 vol 963 cc679-80W
Mr. Moonman

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will make a statement on parents' contributions towards the maintenance of students in receipt of grants; and if she will set up a committee of inquiry to examine this question.

Mr. Oakes

The awards system is intended to enable students to undertake higher education without hardship to themselves or their families. The reduction of the individual student's grant to take account of what his parents could reasonably be expected to contribute has formed part of the arrangements for many years. It is estimated that it would cost an extra £120 million to pay full grants to all award holders, and I cannot foresee that this amount of money will be available for this purpose in the near future.

My Department and the Scottish Education Department are, however, conducting a full review of the student support system, including the assessment of parental contributions. My right hon. Friend sees no necessity for a committee of inquiry.