§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will give details of the support that will be available to students in England and Wales through mandatory awards and student loans in the academic year 1998–99. [20568]
§ Dr. HowellsThe total level of support available to students through grant and loan together in 1998–99 will be 3 per cent. higher than for 1997–98 in line with forecast price increases. I am placing a Memorandum in the Library giving full details of the new grant, loan and fee rates for 1998–99. These rates will be incorporated in the Education (Mandatory Awards) Regulations and the Education (Student Loans) Regulations to be laid before Parliament in due course.