REVIEW OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND THE SCOTTISH UNIVERSITY SYSTEM

Early day motion 284, tabled 22 July 1997 by Andrew Welsh (Scottish National Party). Signed by 17 members.

That this House notes with concern reports that students may be required to contribute ú1,000 per year to the cost of their university tuition; notes that such charges would discriminate in particular against students in Scottish universities where four year courses are the norm; is concerned that tuition fees will only serve to discourage students from poorer backgrounds, adult returnees and students with families from entering higher education; condemns any threat to the principle of free access to higher education which has underpinned the success of the Scottish education system; and calls on the Government to ensure that higher education continues as a right for all rather than a privilege for the few.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 8, Scottish National Party 5, Labour 3, UUP 1.