HC Deb 06 November 2003 vol 412 cc762-3W
Mr. Cousins

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what plans he has to change the income assessments for eligibility for full or partial remission of tuition fees. [136541]

Alan Johnson

We intend to keep the income thresholds at which students are eligible for full and partial fee remission under review. In addition, from 2004, the poorest 30 per cent. of students—those whose parental income is below £15,200—will receive a full HE grant of £1,000. From 2006–07, Higher Education Institutions will need to offer additional bursaries to students, as part of the access agreements they will draw up in return for the ability to charge variable fees of up to £3,000.