§ Jackie BallardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what was the average bursary given to(a) nursing students, (b) medical students and (c) dental students in the most recent year for which figures are available; what calculation is made for additional earned income within the formulae for calculating such grants; and if he will make a statement. [48444]
§ Mr. MilburnThe National Health Service currently provides bursaries for nursing students undertaking a pre-registration diploma programme (Project 2000). Information on the average bursary for nursing students is not held centrally. However, the current rates are:
£ London Elsewhere Age under 26 at start of course 5,230 4,450 Age 26 and over at start of course 5,785 5,010 The bursary is non-means tested and therefore there is no calculation for additional earned income.
Medical and dental students do not currently receive NHS bursaries. However, for those who enter training from 1 September 1998, the NHS will meet tuition costs and fund means tested bursaries in years 5 and beyond.