HC Deb 05 May 1995 vol 259 cc338-9W
Mr. Sheerman

To ask the Secretary of State for Education what element of the maintenance grant for students is allotted for expenditure on books and equipment for (a) arts students, (b) social science students, (c) medical students and (d) engineering students. [22697]

Mr. Boswell

It is for students to decide how to spend the total resources available to them from both maintenance grants and loans according to their particular needs. Disabled students may be eligible for additional means-tested allowances to cover the cost of special equipment and materials. Local education authorities can also, in certain circumstances, make discretionary awards to pay for books and equipment to students who are not eligible for mandatory awards.