§ Mr. Harry BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations he has received about the application for polytechnic status by Derbyshire college of higher education since 16 December; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alan HowarthWe have received a number of representations, including from the mayor of Derby, the chairman of the education committee of Derbyshire county council and a number of hon. Members. Officials of the Department met the director of the college, together with the directors of some other colleges on 9 January, to discuss questions about institutional titles. Although my right hon. and learned Friend's announcement on 16 December made it clear that he does not expect to approve further applications for polytechnic designation, the route to a university title is not closed for institutions which are not polytechnics. Following consultations with the representative bodies of higher education, my right hon. and learned Friend announced on 15 January 1992,Official Report, column 582, the criteria which must be met.