§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what arrangements are made for those receiving grants for further education in England to obtain a breakdown of the provisions made for various purposes in their grants; what guidance he has issued on the matter; whether he proposes to take any steps to allow greater access to such information held on automated and non-automated records; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeMandatory awards are made by local education authorities in accordance with the provisions of the Education (Mandatory Awards) Regulations, which specify both main and supplementary rates of grant. Discretionary awards made under section 2 of the Education Act 1962 are the responsibility of local authorities. My right hon. Friend has issued no guidance on the way in which students should be informed about any awards they may receive. The Data Protection Bill will create a general entitlement to access by individuals to automated personal records held on them when it comes into operation.