million+ supports conclusion that higher education vouchers are ‘unattractive and unacceptable’
Responding to a report from the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) today (Thursday) Chief Executive of the university think-tank Pam Tatlow said, “It is important to distinguish between a learning entitlement where people have the right to access higher education as part of a social contract between the state and the individuals and a voucher system. Higher education vouchers are advocated by those who want more marketisation and competition in higher education. In fact, vouchers are a complete red herring. They offer no advantages to students, universities or Government and would simply divert attention away from the need for increased investment in the UK’s universities.
“Students would be faced with an even more complex system but would still not be guaranteed a place at their institution of choice. Universities would face huge uncertainties that would undermine long-term strategic planning and the financial stability that has contributed to the success and global reputation of UK higher education. Unless the supply of vouchers was restricted or their worth reduced, the Treasury would lose its grip on expenditure and the costs of student support. This is hardly the recipe for a successful HE funding system.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- million+ is a leading university think-tank, working to solve the complex problems in higher education. www.millionplus.ac.uk
- The full HEPI report can be found on their website www.hepi.ac.uk
- For more information or to speak to Pam Tatlow please contact Gemma Tumelty on 0207 7171655 or 07900 277819