asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he has taken to ensure the smooth student grants in each year from 1978–79 to the most recent date for which information is available (a) in cash terms and (b) in real terms using 1978–79 as a base.

The following table gives the average, assessed contribution from parents, spouses and students, for mandatory and full-value discretionary awards:transfer of staff from research councils to other bodies; and what guidance he gives on negotiations between unions representing such staff and their new employer.

In 1986 the Government issued a guidance note to the Agricultural and Food Research Council, in its capacity as employer, and to other bodies concerning consultation with trade union sides on proposed transfers of work. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the note.