§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many Chevening scholarships were awarded in each of the last three years, broken down by country of origin of students. [161945]
§ Mr. MullinNumbers of Chevening scholarships awarded in the last three years have been: 2,285 in 2000–01, 2,284 in 2001–02, 2,390 in 2002–03. In each year the scholars were drawn from more than 150 countries, territories and regions. I will send the breakdown by country to the hon. Member, and I will place a copy in the Library of the House.
§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make it his policy to enable students who are exiled from their own country to be able to bid for Chevening scholarships. [161946]
§ Mr. MullinWhile candidates for Chevening scholarships are normally required to apply in their countries of origin and to return there after completing their studies, we would not exclude applications from candidates who are outside their countries of origin. All applications are considered on their merits.