29 June 2010

million+ sets out the ‘University Challenge’ for the new parliament

Leading university think tank million+ will today set out the ‘University Challenge’ that the new government and parliament face in the coming months. Speaking at the million+ Summer Reception at the House of Commons, Professor Les Ebdon, Chair of million+ and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire will say:

“Over 100 students and staff from universities across the UK have come to showcase their work in parliament today and to challenge their own local MPs to become ‘university champions’ – working to support their local university at a time when universities and students face difficult spending reductions.

“As we work to rebuild the UK economy, government and MPs from all parties must recognise the huge potential of universities to contribute to economic growth and innovation. The economic impact of a university is two and half times its annual turn-over, universities contribute over £5 billion in foreign exchange earnings each year and 2.5 million students and staff study and work in our universities.

“By having university champions from all parties, that are active and vocal in parliament, we can work together to try to improve the understanding of the impact that universities have on our economy and why having the opportunity to study at university is vital in building a fairer and more cohesive society.”

David Willetts MP, Minister for Universities and Science, Pat McFadden MP, Shadow Secretary for BIS and Susan Nash from the NUS will also speak at the reception which is being hosted by Tom Blenkinsop MP.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:
The University Challenge for the New Parliament: A Summer Reception for MPs, Peers, Students and Universities will take place between 4.30pm and 6.00pm, today, in the Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, Westminister.