§ 2. Sir Reginald Eyreasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many students are currently receiving mandatory grants; and how this figure compares with that for 1979.
§ Mr. WaldenThere are nearly 400,000 students from England and Wales currently receiving a mandatory award—some 75,000 more than in 1979–80.
§ 25. Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received over the provision of an additional allowance for the student grant for students studying in Aberdeen; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldenAs I said on 6 May 1986, at column40, a small number of letters has been received seeking additional support for Aberdeen students. My recent letter to the hon. Member explains that there is no prospect of finding the necessary resources to enable the grant for Aberdeen students to be increased.
§ 27. Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the level of student grant for 1986–87.
§ Mr. WaldenAn announcement, which will need to take account of the Government's decisions on the proposed entitlement of students to certain social security benefits, will be made very soon.
§ 44. Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he has received any representations from the vice-chancellor of Manchester university on his proposed changes in the student award system.
§ Mr. WaldenThe vice-chancellor of Manchester university sent a circular letter to all Members of this House, eight of whom have written seeking my comments.