HC Deb 17 October 1995 vol 264 c228W
13. Mr. Rooker

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what has been the effect of limiting permitted hours of study by recipients of social security benefits on recruitment in the further education colleges. [36003]

Mr. Forth

There has been no change in the permitted number of hours of study by current recipients of benefit. The number of students entering further education courses continues to rise, increasing by 3 per cent. in 1994–95 over the previous year.

24. Mr. Timms

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what has been the effect on college recruitment of the changes to the 21-hour rule. [36014]

Mr. Forth

There is no intention that the introduction of job seeker's allowance in October 1996 will lead to any change in the permitted hours of study by recipients on benefits. The number of students entering further education courses continues to rise, increasing by 3 per cent. in 1994–95 over the previous year.