Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, what the reasons are for the distinction, made in the Annexes to his Department's response, published in March 2015, to its consultation on Support for Post-Graduate study, between taught Masters students who are studying via distance learning and part-time taught Masters students for the purposes of the new postgraduate loans scheme proposed for England; and if he will make a statement.

In March 2015 the Government launched the consultation on ‘Support for Postgraduate Study’ for Masters and Research level study. The consultation included proposals related to the terms and design features of the proposed new postgraduate Master’s loan scheme, including the eligibility of distance learning and part-time Master’s study. The responses to the consultation are currently being analysed and the Department will respond in the autumn.