Lib Dem MP signs up to tuition fee pledge

4.45.39pm GMT Tue 17th Nov 2009

John Leech MP meets NUS president Wes Streeting

There should be a greater role for student input into the debate over university tuition fees according to Withington MP John Leech, who has also signed a pledge to vote against any increase in fees in the next parliament.

The National Union of Students hosted an event outside of Westminster to argue for an alternative to tuition fees, at which Mr Leech signed the pledge. He also gave his support to a parliamentary motion which called for students to be properly represented on the Funding Review Group. This is the body responsible for considering whether the current rate of tuition fees should change, and will report after the next general election.

John said:

"Any review of tuition fees needs to involve those directly affected by its outcomes, which is why I have supported this motion. I met with students and discussed the issue of tuition fees, and share their concerns about the potential for a further rise in the costs of education."

He added:

"The Liberal Democrats remain the only major party who support universal free education, and aim to make higher education opportunities accessible to all. Everyone who has the ability to go to university should be able to, and not be put off by the costs".

<ENDS>

Notes for Editors:

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1. John Leech has signed Early Day Motion 2269.

UNIVERSITY TUITION FEES (No. 2)

10.11.2009

Hoyle, Lindsay

That this House recognises the importance of encouraging and taking note of student input when debating a potential rise in university tuition fees; and calls for students to be adequately represented on the Funding Review Group to ensure a balanced assessment of the issue is achieved.

2. Attached a photo of John signing the pledge with NUS President Wes Streeting.