§ Mr. Prenticeasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) what studies have been made by his Department on the subject of bogus degrees or diplomas; what representations he has received; what evidence he has about the growth of the problem; and whether he will make a statement;
(2) if he will introduce legislation to regulate bogus educational qualifications, and, in particular, bogus degrees; and if he will make a statement;
(3) if he will make a statement on the list prepared for the Council of Europe of institutions where alleged qualifications are not generally recognised in Europe; and whether Her Majesty's Government will press for the publication of this list;
(4) whether Her Majesty's Government will hold discussions with other countries in the European Community, and with the European Commission, with a view to joint action against the purveyors of bogus degrees or diplomas.
§ Mr. WaldenThe Government recognise that the problem exists, although they have no accurate information about its extent. My right hon. Friend has received a number of representations from individuals, including several hon. Members, and from the College of Preceptors, the British Council and the Open University.
The Government deplore the activities of those offering bogus qualifications. Proposals for legislation to curtail such activities have been studied, in particular those put forward by my right hon. Friend the Member for Daventry. Legislation remains a possibility, but there are substantial practical difficulties, not least in relation to European Community law and the position of respectable foreign universities operating in this country. The Government will continue to consider the position, but see difficulties in introducing early legislation.
The Council of Europe has shelved plans to publish a revised version of its list of non-recognised institutions. The Government have strong reservations about the value of such a list, which would need to be both comprehensive and frequently updated in order to he effective.
The Government have no plans to hold discussions with other European Community members with a view to joint action. An approach to the European Commission is, however, intended in order to overcome the difficulties referred to about Community law.