Science and Technology

HC Deb 10 May 1994 vol 243 cc111-3W

Mr. Sheerman

To ask the Secretary of State for Education what steps he is taking to encourage students to study science and technology.

Mr. Boswell

The introduction of general national vocational qualifications in engineering and science will provide high-quality alternatives to GCE A-levels and additional routes for students wishing to acquire scientific skills. Changes in the fee structure for universities and colleges offer an incentive to offer relatively more places in science and technology. Fees for laboratory and workshop-based courses will continue to be significantly higher than those for classroom-based courses. We are also introducing an engineering bursary scheme which will provide an additional £500 a year to those entering accredited engineering degree courses in autumn 1994, 1995 and 1996 who have achieved grades AAB at A-level or its equivalent.