HC Deb 03 April 1984 vol 57 cc508-9W
6. Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what level of increase in demand for student places in higher education will cause him to review the current position in respect of student numbers.

Mr. Brooke

The Government's objective is to maintain access to higher education for all those who want it and are suitably qualified. Planned levels of provision will be reviewed accordingly.

25. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what evidence is required to initiate a review of the demand for student places in higher education.

39. Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the exact form of evidence required to cause him to review the current position in respect of demand for student places in higher education.

43. Mr. Freud

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how Her Majesty's Government, in order to review the provision of numbers, will obtain evidence as to whether a larger proportion of those qualified are seeking to enter higher education.

Mr. Brooke

The Government's objective is to maintain access to higher education for all those who want it and are suitably qualified. To form a view on whether demand is being broadly met the Department monitors trends in the numbers and proportions of students qualifying for higher education from schools and further education colleges; in the level of applications for places in universities through the Universities Central Council on Admissions; in reported vacancies on courses of advanced further education; and in the age participation rate and the qualified participation rate.

50. Dr. Marek

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will publish his projections for student numbers in higher education for the next 15 years.

51. Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he has now received new estimates for the demands for higher education over the next 16 years.

Mr. Brooke

Student number forecasts based on projected demand for higher education were published in report on education No. 99. These figures are currently being revised and my right hon. Friend hopes to publish further projections after Easter.