§ Mr. George HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many representations she has received since 1997 from(a) education bodies and groups, (b) hon. Members and (c) members of the public concerning tuition fees for students; and if she will make a statement. [30970]
§ Margaret HodgeSince 1 April 2000 the Department has received 103 letters from hon. Members and 421 letters from members of the public about tuition fees in higher education. We cannot give a breakdown of how many letters on this subject were received from education bodies and groups. Prior to 1 April 2000, no centralised electronic record was kept and we cannot therefore give reliable information.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced a review of higher education student finance in October. In view of the benefits conferred on individuals by higher education, the Government believe it is right for students and their families to contribute to the cost. We are re-examining the balance of contributions between the state, the students and their families to ensure that we have appropriate arrangements in place to expand participation to 50 per cent. of those aged 18-30 by 2010.