Written question asked by James Plaskitt (Labour) on Monday, 26 July 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 27 July 1999. It was answered by George Mudie (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 July 1999 on behalf of the Department for Education and Employment.

Dept for Education and Employment

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment, if he will make a statement on the future of the competition to sell a third portfolio of student loan debt.

Answer: Mr. Plaskitt: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on the future of the competition to sell a third portfolio of student loan debt. [93824] Mr. Mudie: We have successfully completed two sales of student loan debt in the financial years 1997-98 and 1998-99. A decision on the future timing of the third sale will be taken following the implementation of the new student support arrangements later this year, the 2000 Review and the outcome of the Review of Administration of Student Support, which is also due to report in 2000. The postponement of the third sale will have no impact on borrowers. Sold loans will remain in the hands of the private sector owners and the remainder will stay in public ownership. The Student Loans Company continues to administer all loans as before.

Secondary information