Bridget Phillipson Opposes Higher Tuition Fees Amid University Cash Crisis

As students across the UK prepare for university following their A-level results, concerns about a potential cash crisis in higher education have emerged. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson faced questions regarding calls from university leaders for the government to raise tuition fees in line with inflation. The current cap on tuition fees, set at £9,250 since 2017, has not kept pace with rising costs, leading institutions to increasingly depend on higher-paying international students. In an interview with Sky News, Phillipson acknowledged the financial challenges faced by universities but described the idea of increasing tuition fees as "unpalatable." She highlighted the existing struggles many students encounter, including rising living costs and the need to work multiple jobs to support their studies. While she confirmed that the government plans to reform the higher education system, she did not provide specific details on potential changes. Phillipson also reiterated Labour's stance against increasing tuition fees, stating that the party has "no plans" to do so. Additionally, she addressed the visa restrictions imposed on international students by the previous government, indicating that these measures would remain in place. She emphasized the significant contributions international students make to local economies, particularly in her constituency of Sunderland. A spokesperson for Universities UK urged collaboration between the government and university leaders to ensure the sustainability of the higher education sector. They noted that many institutions are already making cuts and seeking efficiencies to navigate the financial pressures they face.