HC Deb 22 November 1990 vol 181 cc204-5W
Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) on what grounds the press release on student unions issued by his Department on Friday 16 November was withdrawn;

(2) who instructed the withdrawal of the press release on student unions issued by his Department on Friday 16 November;

(3) what were the differences between the press releases on student unions issued on Friday 16 November and Sunday 18 November.

Mr. Rifkind

A news release about consultation on student unions, the text of which was still under consideration, was issued prematurely on Friday 16 November. It was withdrawn under established procedure as soon as the error became apparent, and the final version was issued on Sunday 18 November.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he intends to introduce legislation following the consultation on student unions.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

My right hon. and learned Friend has no plans to do so.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make available the responses to his first series of consultations about student unions in Scotland.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

A copy of the publication "Student Union Survey: Analysis" was placed in the House Library last year.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the consultation proposed on student unions includes discussion on freedom of speech.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

The scope of the proposed consultation has yet to be decided.