Publication
Response
5 Oct 2026
Autumn Budget submission 2026
MillionPlus has submitted its recommendations ahead of the Autumn Budget, calling on the Government to ensure universities are equipped to deliver the skills, research and innovation needed to support economic growth and public service priorities.
The submission argues that modern universities are central to widening opportunity, addressing workforce shortages and driving regional growth, but warns that continued financial pressures risk undermining their contribution. It calls for a sustainable long-term funding settlement for higher education, a review of student maintenance support, reform of Teachers’ Pension Scheme requirements, and continued investment in a diverse research and innovation ecosystem.
The submission also highlights the importance of international student recruitment to university finances, local economies and the sustainability of strategically important courses, urging the Government to assess the impact of proposed policy changes carefully and ensure they do not undermine wider skills, workforce and growth objectives.
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