HC Deb 01 December 1981 vol 14 cc105-6W
25. Mr. Edwin Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the present level of the minimum maintenance grant for students; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Waldegrave

My right hon. Friend is satisfied that the minimum maintenance payment of £410 for the current academic year is reasonable. He is not yet in a position to make a statement about the rates of student awards for 1982–83.

33. Mr. Gordon Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the intended level of university student grants for the academic year 1982–83.

34. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is now in a position to make a statement on the future of student grants.

Mr. Waldegrave

My right hon. Friend has not yet reached decisions on student grants for the academic year 1982–83. In considering the range of possibilities he will take into account, amongst many relevant factors, the Government's overall commitment to restrain public expenditure.

46. Mr. Dover

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received on the level of student grants; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Waldegrave

My right hon. Friend has received representations from the National Union of Students and about 50 letters concerning the level of student grants. In reaching his decisions concerning the level of student grants for the academic year 1982–83 my right hon. Friend will take account of these representations and all other relevant factors, including the Government's overall commitment to restrain public expenditure.