17 June 2008

Million+ comment on Government response to IUSS Committee report on the withdrawal of funding for equivalent or lower level qualifications (ELQs)

Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of the university think-tank Million+ said “This is a simplistic response to a report from MPs which analyses why this decision will limit access to higher education. The Government is clearly relying on universities to cross-subsidise ELQ provision to avoid a hike in fees for these students.

There are two glimmers of hope: first the Government’s response suggests that there will be a more robust review of subject exemptions in December 2008. This is certainly required if universities are to meet the needs for re-skilling in a modern economy. Second the decision to withdraw funding is time-limited to three years. Universities and students can only hope that a more enlightened policy will be introduced well before 2011”.

ENDS

For further information, comment and interviews, please contact Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of Million+ on 020 7717 1655 / 07795 645241.