§ Mr. CameronTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how much money has been spent in the last six months on advertisements to promote and explain top-up fees; how many advertisements have been broadcast; and what the total planned spending is on this campaign. [142642]
§ Alan Johnson [holding answer 8 December 2003]The Department has not run any advertising in the last six months to promote and explain top-up fees. However, it has run advertising to inform those considering applying for a higher education course about the
360W
Student Support Scheme—student numbers and proportions Academic year 1998/99 1999/2000 2000/01 2001/02 Number (Thousand)
% of eligible students
Number (Thousand)
% of eligible students
Number (Thousand)
% of eligible students
Number (Thousand)
% of eligible students
Full or partial contribution towards the cost of tution from student/parents/spouse/partner3 133 55 263 55 397 58 415 57 student support package available to them and how to apply. This is an annual campaign and was launched last month with radio, magazine and poster advertising costing £240,000.
There is information on the proposed changes to student finance in the campaign leaflet and website which are publicised in the advertising.
A second wave of this advertising for young people is planned for the New Year at the same weight and cost.
In parallel, we are also running advertorials in women's magazines for parents of those considering applying for a higher education course. The cost of this is £174,000, giving a total campaign cost of £654,000.
All costs exclude VAT.
§ Mr. FlookTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what rules govern the impact on the estate of an individual should he or she die owing student loans acquired to pay tuition fees; and whether he proposes that the forthcoming legislation should change the rules. [142702]
§ Alan Johnson [holding answer 8 December 2003]Loan repayments are cancelled if a borrower dies before the loan is paid off. We have no intention of changing that policy in respect of loans for variable tuition fees from 2006.