HC Deb 22 October 2001 vol 373 c35W
Mr. Key

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what plans she has to promote increased access to training and development in renewable energy-related disciplines in higher education. [7358]

Margaret Hodge

Higher education institutions are autonomous organisations which design and determine their own courses, in response to market forces. A substantial number of higher education institutions are offering a range of courses in renewable energy-related disciplines in the current academic year. The Government are keen to promote an interest in science and technology generally. Science Year (September 2001 to August 2002) will raise the profile of science and increase pupil engagement with science, particularly in the 10–19 age range. It aims to boost the take-up of science subjects post-16.