Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from what date income support for students was withdrawn; when local social security offices were advised of this date, in what manner students were advised in advance of this date; whether the students who applied before this date will continue to receive this benefit after this date until they resume their studies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Needham[holding answer 15 October 1990]: Most students ceased to be eligible for income support from 1 September 1990. However, any student who was entitled before 1 September 1990 did not lose entitlement until the resumption of his course of study. Initial guidance was issued to social security offices on 20 August 1990. Information about the new arrangements for student support was contained in a leaflet, copies of which were issued in June 1990 to universities, colleges of education, further education colleges and secondary schools. I have placed copies of the leaflet in the Library.