Assisted Places Scheme

HC Deb 20 July 1982 vol 28 cc129-30W

43. Mr. Stanbrook

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the progress of the assisted places scheme.

Dr. Boyson

As I said in reply to my hon. Friend on 22 June 1982—[Vol. 26, c. 53]—more than 4,200 pupils are already benefiting from the assisted places scheme, which is nearing the end of its first year of operation. More than two-thirds of these pupils are from families with below average incomes. A further 5,600 assisted places are available from September and the 220 independent schools participating in the scheme are currently selecting children for these.