HC Deb 20 June 1984 vol 62 c177W
16. Mr. Hirst

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied that the perceived requirements of Scottish industry for graduates will be met by the numbers expected to graduate from Scottish institutions of higher education during the remainder of the decade.

Mr. Allan Stewart

For most disciplines, the answer is yes. Industry has, however, expressed some concern in recent months about the availability of engineering graduates from universities and colleges, and the Government are considering whether a further increase in the number of engineering student places in Great Britain is required. Since 1980 the number of engineering graduates from Scottish institutions of higher education has increased by almost a quarter, to reach 1,680 in 1983 and is expected to rise further this year.