Oral Answers to Questions — Scottish Universities (Women Students)

– in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 18 March 1948.

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Photo of Mr Hector Hughes Mr Hector Hughes , Aberdeen North 12:00, 18 March 1948

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the difficulties which handicap young women seeking to secure admission to Scottish Universities, and what steps he proposes to increase the facilities for women students.

Photo of Mr William Hall Mr William Hall , Colne Valley

I am aware that in Scotland, as elsewhere, the number of candidates for admission to the universities exceeds the number of places available. But the number of women students at the Scottish universities has increased since 1938–39 by 56 per cent. and I hope that it may increase still further as the universities' plans for expansion develop.

Photo of Mr Hector Hughes Mr Hector Hughes , Aberdeen North

Having regard to the needs of the medical profession in particular, is the Minister aware of the high number of young Scots women who are being frustrated in their legitimate desire to enter that profession, and will he take steps to facilitate them?

Photo of Mrs Lucy Middleton Mrs Lucy Middleton , Plymouth, Sutton

Will the Minister take steps to see that in English and Scottish

Following is the reply:

The table below shows the numbers of insured persons registered at the Durham, Crook and Spennymoor Employment Exchanges as unemployed at the dates in question.

universities there is equality of opportunity for both sexes.

Photo of Mr Anthony Marlowe Mr Anthony Marlowe , Brighton

If the numbers in the universities are to be increased, does that not strengthen the case for their representation in this House?

Photo of Mr William Hall Mr William Hall , Colne Valley

I should not have thought so, because those who are represented in this House are not those who happen to be at any given time in the universities.