asked the Lord President of the Council and Minister for Science if, in implementing plans to expand higher education, Her Majesty's Government will take steps to encourage those universities and university promotion committees which are prepared to raise funds by their own efforts, so that the full cost does not fall on the taxpayer.

The Robbins Report has stressed the continued desirability of benefactions to universities. I am sure this is right.

I thank my right hon. and learned Friend for that reply, but does he agree that any university would be ill-advised to interpret the Robbins Report as a reason for abandoning any projects it might have for raising public funds?

The Robbins Report expressly stressed the desirability of the flexibility and independence which private funds give universities.

Is the Minister aware that I do not necessarily accept the sentiment expressed in the last words of the Question? Will he bear in mind, however, that the seven new universities in England and Wales have gone precisely to those places where the local authorities or promotion committees have been making such efforts? In this respect, will he bear in mind the efforts being made in East Stirlingshire for the provision of a new university in Scotland?

I am sure that I shall bear in mind all relevant considerations.