NUS President Wes Streeting said:
“We welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to continue to broaden opportunities for young people, in particular his initiative to offer apprenticeships in partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses. Backing young Britain is particularly important during a recession and will be vital in the march towards economic recovery.
“The Prime Minister's commitment to ensure that no cap on opportunities exists requires an immediate focus on next year’s university admissions. In order to meet record demand for places the Government must hold urgent talks with universities, colleges and, in particular, the Open University to make sure that places are provided and funded. This year, in spite of record admissions, we have seen thousands of applicants turned away from our universities because of a shortage of places – this must not be allowed to happen again next year. We call on the other parties to match a commitment to funding expansion.”
Streeting’s comments follow a heated panel debate at an NUS fringe with Million+ at the Labour Party Conference. Streeting challenged higher education minister David Lammy to define the party's position on higher education and stop ducking the issue by hiding behind the fee review.
"It's shameful that the government will not discuss higher education funding", said Streeting. "Labour should set out it's position on higher education and recognise that it is not in the interests of opportunity, access or mobility for fees to continue."