HC Deb 04 June 1981 vol 5 c394W
Mr. Geoffrey Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the degree of autonomy or independence students unions will enjoy under the new arrangements.

Dr. Boyson

That must depend on local circumstances. My right hon. and learned Friend did say, however, when announcing the new arrangements on 5 February 1980I would expect that within the requirements of these new arrangements institutions will continue to afford their unions freedom in the management of their affairs".

Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science, in the light of the fact that the Middlesex polytechnic students union has decided to send a substantial sum to an organisation connected with the Provisional Irish Republican Army in order to indicate solidarity to the hunger strikers, he will introduce legislation to restrict the categories of expenditure of such bodies.

Dr. Boyson

The decision was taken at a meeting attended by some 50 members of the union whose rules prescribe a quorum of 300 members. The decision was overwhelmingly rejected by a subsequent and properly constituted meeting of the union. Meanwhile, the High Court granted an application from the president-elect of the union for an injunction to stop the payment.

I see no present need for legislation. The original decision of the Middlesex polytechnic students' union was ultra vires. I consider that the new arrangements for financing student unions, which will be introduced next term, should be an additional deterrent.