MillionPlus comment on the Government’s Immigration White Paper

MillionPlus, the Association for Modern Universities, has today (12 May) commented on the Government’s Immigration White Paper.

Rachel Hewitt, Chief Executive of MillionPlus, said:

“Universities are prepared to work with ministers to ensure that their compliance levels do not drop from their already very high standards and to root out any incidences of fraud where they are found. But it should be noted that while the public may be concerned about immigration, evidence suggests that international students are not a cause of that concern. In fact, quite the opposite. They rightly recognise that international students bring huge benefit to this country, economically, culturally on campuses up and down the land, intellectually and to British standing overseas.

“That said, we would urge the government to proceed with real caution. University finances are under unprecedented strain already, so a proposed tax on one of the only income streams institutions have which does not run at a loss will have alarm bells ringing, at least until much greater detail is forthcoming.

“Similarly, the graduate route is a key component of the offer that UK universities can make to international applicants and, at a time when the sector would benefit from stability above almost anything else, its value should be recognised and not eroded.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Rachel Hewitt on 07795645241 or email ceo@millionplus.ac.uk
2. MillionPlus is the Association for Modern Universities in the UK, and the voice of 21st century higher education. We champion, promote and raise awareness of the essential role and impact of modern universities in the UK’s world-leading higher education sector. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk
3. What are modern universities? Modern universities are long established centres of higher education in their communities with roots that stretch back decades, if not centuries. Many gained university title following legislation agreed by parliament in 1992. They make up almost half of the UK university sector with over a million students studying at modern universities every year.
4. Think Modern: Innovation, ingenuity and inclusion from Britain's modern universities - FACTS AND STATS