Duncan Hames
Main Page: Duncan Hames (Liberal Democrat - Chippenham)
Vince Cable
Yes, I have indeed seen the equality impact assessment; it will be released very soon.
Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD)
More than two fifths of places to study medicine are awarded to prospective students living in the top fifth of areas for higher education participation. Will the Minister for Universities and Science consider the social background profile of students on longer degree courses, so that the Office for Fair Access can demand specific actions for these courses in future access agreements?
Mr Willetts
I know that the medical profession is committed to trying to ensure that it attracts talented people who can contribute to medicine regardless of their background. Of course, together with the Secretary of State for Health, I recently announced a very fair funding arrangement for medical students, which I hope will ensure that the profession will continue to be open to young people—whatever their background.