asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether it is his intention to return to a system of quinquennial financing of universities; and whether he envisages publishing a five-year plan during the forthcoming financial year.

My right hon. Friend intends to return to a system of longer-term planning for university financing when the economic situation allows. The answer to the second part of the Question is "No".

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he has now received and studied the statement by the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Principals of the Universities of the United Kingdom entitled "Universities in a Period of Economic Crisis"; and what response he has made to it.

My right hon. Friend discussed the statement with representatives of the Committee on 9th December last. He expressed his appreciation of the achievements of the universities and his understanding of the problems they faced as a result of restrictions on expenditure at a time of rising student numbers.