asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many representations she has now received about her proposals for the reform of student union financing.

Following consultations with interested parties, my Department issued on 15th May a discussion paper suggesting possible new arrangements for the financing of student unions to be introduced at the start of the academic year 1979–80. Copies of this discussion paper have been placed in the Library. My right hon. Friend will be glad to receive views on the proposed new arrangements from as wide a range of interests as possible.