Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Michelle Donelan and Robert Largan

Monday 26th April 2021 Commons Chamber

[Michelle Donelan]

The cap on medical places was lifted last year, and those medical students who had to defer will not count towards the cap this year. If medical training places are to be permanently raised, there will be a process for medical schools to apply for a proportion of the expansion, just as was the case with the recent uplift of 1,500. I am sure that the hon. Member will be more than happy to meet the Minister for Care, my hon. Friend the Member for Faversham and Mid Kent (Helen Whately), who also looks after workforce matters, and that she would be only too happy to discuss the issue with him.

[Robert Largan (High Peak) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to ensure that all students taking T-levels receive a high-quality industry placement.

Support for University Students: Covid-19

Debate between Michelle Donelan and Robert Largan

Wednesday 3rd February 2021 Commons Chamber

[Michelle Donelan]

In every conversation that I have with my counterparts in the DAs, we certainly do look at all the issues affecting students, and also universities, at this difficult time.

[Robert Largan (High Peak) (Con) [V]]

I welcome the extra £50 million of funding announced yesterday for universities, which will help thousands of students facing financial difficulties because of coronavirus. Can the Minister confirm that this funding will be focused on support for the most disadvantaged students, including many from High Peak, who have been badly hit by the pandemic?

[Michelle Donelan]

I can, indeed. I urge all students, including those who originate from High Peak, who have been disadvantaged by the pandemic and find themselves in hardship, to approach their university and apply for this fund, which is exactly designed to target those who have found themselves in hardship and to put money in their pockets and assist them at this difficult time.