asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what percentage and what number of the total number of assisted places in the present school session have been awarded to pupils currently attending fee-paying schools.

Figures for 1982–83 are not yet available. In 1981–82, 68 per cent. of assisted pupils had previously been in publicy maintained schools for at least two years immediately prior to taking up their assisted places: it is a requirement of the scheme that at least 60 per cent. of selected pupils should be so qualified.