To ask the Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills how many students studying for an equivalent or lower qualification are part-time students. (178119)

HEFCE estimate that the some 37,000 part-time students (in full-time equivalent terms) were studying equivalent or lower level qualifications (ELQ) in 2005/06. We have always made clear that there will be no change in the existing institutional funding arrangements for all students currently studying for equivalent or lower level qualifications until they have completed their courses.