Those who have signed the petition include several Labour MPs, who are reported to be revolting against their party in a bid to retain their seats, particularly in constituencies with large student populations.
The petition is part of NUS’ ‘Funding Our Future’ campaign - the Union’s education funding campaign which is working for a fairer funding system for all students. The campaign has, amongst other things, invited all candidates standing in the forthcoming General Election to ‘come clean on fees’ and state where they stand on the issue.
Those to sign up from the Labour Party include six former ministers, a serving government whip and the parliamentary private secretary to David Lammy, the Minister for Innovation, Universities and Skills.
Many Liberal Democrats have signed the NUS pledge, including current leader Nick Clegg, former leader Charles Kennedy and Stephen Williams, the higher education spokesman.
However only ten Conservative candidates have signed up sparking fears that they could be the party to raise tuition fees should they be elected.
Wes Streeting, NUS President said: “It is hugely encouraging to see so many Labour candidates and established figures taking a stand against higher fees.
“It’s disappointing that so few Conservative candidates are willing to state where they stand. Many students will draw the conclusion that the Conservatives are the party most inclined to hike up fees.”