Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Baroness Prosser (Labour). It was answered by Lord Mandelson (Labour) on Thursday, 21 January 2010.

Universities: STEM Subjects

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what action he is taking to give priority to STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) at higher education level in the light of the possibility of spending cuts affecting universities. My Lords, on behalf of my noble friend Lady Wall, and at her request, I beg leave to ask the Question standing in her name on the Order Paper.

Answer: My Lords, science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills are crucial in securing future prosperity. Last summer, I asked universities to provide an additional 10,000 places on courses that contribute most to our high-level skills needs, including STEM subjects. All of these places have been filled. Higher Ambitions, the Government’s higher education framework, will deliver further skills needed for new industry and new jobs, notably in STEM subjects.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 716 c1100
Session: 2009-10
Oral question type: Lead
Procedure: Secretary of State's questions (HL)
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Notes: Question asked on behalf of Baroness Wall of New Barnet.
Subjects: Finance Higher education Engineering Universities Technology Science Mathematics
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk