asked the Minister of Education whether, in view of the fact that enough university places will not be available for suitable pupils leaving sixth forms, what steps he is taking to provide alternative higher education for those who do not obtain university places.

A wide variety of courses suitable for pupils from sixth forms is available in colleges of advanced technology and other colleges of further education, and these are being greatly expanded in all parts of the country.

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very grave concern felt about this whole situation since, because he has not properly dealt with the position of teachers in the universities, it is not now possible to have the number of places he expected? Has not he misled the University Grants Committee, and, now that there is no longer the possibility of having 170,000 places—indeed, there is not even the possibility of 150,000 places—what does he intend to do?

Questions relating to the universities must be put down to my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.