asked the Minister of Education what is the number of students at British universities in receipt of financial aid from the State or from local authorities in December, 1939, and December, 1946, respectively; and if he will estimate, in the light of the Ministry's present arrangements, the number expected to be in receipt of such aid in December, 1951.

In December, 1939, 5,554 students at universities and university colleges in England and Wales were receiving direct financial aid from my Department, and about 6,000 were being helped by local education authorities. Many students were receiving help from both sources. In December, 1946, the comparable figures were 20,273 and 7,000. The number of students receiving help from both sources was still considerable, but had been reduced. I regret that I am unable to give a reliable estimate for December, 1951, in view of the many uncertain factors involved.

Does not that figure of 20,000 represent more than 10,000 persons who are in receipt of F.E. and T. grants? Will not these grants cease in September and will not the position be that the proportion of the persons in universities for whom fees are paid will be diminished by many thousands instead of being increased?

The answer is that the breaking down of the figure of 20,273 shows: 917 State scholars, 59 Royal scholars and students in science, 4,988 students aided under the regulations for the training of teachers, 570 open scholars and open exhibitioners receiving university supplemental awards, 1,205 State bursars in science, and 12.534 students assisted under the further education and training scheme.

Is any scheme likely to be announced which will affect those holding F.E. and T. grants which will not now be available?

The possibility of any alternative scheme being announced is being considered.

Will all those men who are now serving in the Forces be eligible for these further education and training grants even though the scheme ends in September or thereabouts?

I cannot commit my right hon. Friend to that point at this stage,, as it is under discussion.