Press Release: Ministers must not block university aspiration
Responding to UCAS figures showing a rise in university applications, Shadow Universities and Skills Secretary, David Willetts said:”These figures show there is growing demand to study at university. The number of English students going to English universities is up by 15,000.
“Ministers have said they will fine universities almost £4,000 for every student that they over-recruited in 2009. We are in the absurd position that ministers are fining universities for moving towards the Government’s own targets on student numbers and widening participation.
“There is a real risk that universities will now respond by reducing the number of places available next year. That is why we have offered a fully-costed plan for 10,000 additional student places in 2010, paid for by the early repayment of student loans.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
1. UCAS has issued final figures for 2009 university entry - these are available on their website at http://www.ucas.ac.uk/about_us/media_enquiries/media_releases/2010/210110.
2. In a letter to the Higher Education Funding Council for England, dated 22 December 2009, Lord Mandelson said universities will be fined £3,700 for each student that they over-recruited in 2009 - http://www.hefce.ac.uk/news/hefce/2009/grant1011/letter.htm.
3. At the Conservative Party Conference in 2009, David Willetts promised 10,000 new student places in 2010, paid for by encouraging the early repayment of student loans from graduates.