GOVERNMENT PROPOSALS FOR TOP-UP FEES

Early day motion 665, tabled 5 February 2003 by Lord Willis of Knaresborough (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 52 members.

That this House agrees with Government research which indicates that debt and the fear of debt are significant barriers to higher education particularly for under represented groups; notes with concern proposals in the Higher Education White Paper which would significantly increase debt for students on graduation; believes the new proposals will create a two-tier university system, with access based more on the ability to pay than merit; calls on the Government to abandon the idea of top-up fees and to abolish tuition fees for undergraduates throughout the United Kingdom; and supports the restoration of maintenance grants for less affluent students to ensure that access to higher education is open to all.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 44, Labour 4, Scottish National Party 3, Plaid Cymru 1.