Cutting Student Numbers is a False Economy

Commenting on the government’s decision to cut the number of extra University places by 10,000, David Lammy MP (Lab, Tottenham), the Shadow Minister for Higher Education, said:

“It is a false economy to cut the number of places at a time when demand is so high. Cutting 10,000 places at University only means adding 10,000 places at the job centre.”

“At a time when other countries are investing in Further and Higher Education, it is staggering that the coalition government seems intent on rolling back a decades worth of investment and increased participation.”

“We can all agree that public sector cuts are necessary, but it is important that they are the right cuts that will not curtail economic recovery – cutting student numbers isn’t one of them.”

Commenting on the Sutton Trust/Ipsos MORI survery of 11-16 year olds regarding fee-levels and enthusiasm, David said:

“I will be keeping a close-watch on this government’s choices when the fees review is published.”

“Our greatest achievements of the last decade are a record number of young people considering University and a record number of working class students taking a degree.”

“Whatever the outcome of the Browne review, the coalition government cannot put widening participation at risk.”