Liberal Democrats criticise Labour 'U turn' over student top up fees

27.01.03

Davey expresses concern over implications for local families and Kingston University

The Government's higher education white paper published on 22nd January includes plans to allow universities to charge top-up fees despite Labour's 2001 Election Manifesto promise, "We will not introduce 'top-up' fees and have legislated to prevent them"

Local MP Edward Davey has fiercely criticised the Government for breaking their promises to students and universities, and are warning that the proposals will create a two tier education system, with universities separated by what they can charge and students split by what they can afford.

Edward Davey commented:

"We continue to be firmly against the introduction of top-up fees and we will be stepping up our campaign against them.

"Government research shows fear of debt puts off young people from disadvantaged backgrounds entering higher education. Burdening students with £20,000 of debt won't increase the chances of our poorest young people going to university.

"Until the Government actually addresses what a modern country needs from its higher education system, Britain will not develop equity between students nor quality in our universities.

"I am extremely concerned of the impact such policies will have on Kingston University. These funding proposals break every single promise this Government has made to students and universities. University will be for the rich, rather than the talented and that is simply not acceptable.