§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the present rôle of his visiting committee in relation to the Open University; if he has any plans to change the composition or functions of the committee; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeThe Open University visiting committee's terms of reference are:
To visit the Open University from time to time to discuss its work and resource needs and, in the light of the Committee's enquiries and of the Government's policies for higher and continuing education, to advise the Secretary of State on the developments proposed by the University and their financial implications; and to consider and advise on questions about the University which may be referred to the Committee by the Secretary of State or on which it may wish to offer advice.Committee membership is initially for three years. The terms of office of the present members expire this year and consideration will be given to the reconstitution of the committee. There are no plans to change its functions.