Press releases and events

UCU: Free education should not be the preserve of the military, says union

Thursday, 17, Jul 2008 12:00

The University and College Union (UCU) today (Thursday) welcomed news that free university tuition fees would be paid by the government for ex-servicemen and women after at least six years of service. Although the union said it was pleased the government had recognised the prohibitive nature of the current funding arrangements, it questioned why the government was freeing some people from the cost yet still burdening thousands of others.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: “A university education is a life changing experience and one that should be available to anyone who has the potential and desire to study. We know that the prohibitive nature of the current loans and fees system puts many people off continuing their education. Today’s announcement from the government suggests they recognise that problem as well.

“Whilst we welcome any moves to make higher education more accessible, and the government acknowledging the role that cost clearly plays in a decision to study, we are concerned that those cost barriers are still in place for the vast majority of aspiring students. Today’s announcement must signal a shift towards a fairer system where students are not saddled with debts if they wish to make the most of a university education.”

The union was commenting on the Service Personnel Command Paper, presented to the House of Commons today by Defence Secretary, Des Browne.

ends

contacts:

Dan Ashley t: 020 7670 9705; m: 07789 518 992; e: dashley@ucu.org.uk

Want additional support? The College and University Support Network (CUSN) offers UCU members a range of services - from factsheets to counselling. Access these services online http://cusn.info/ or through the 24/7 telephone support line, Freephone 08000 329952

Disclaimer:
Press releases published on this page are from key opinion formers who promote their organisation's activities by subscribing to a campaign site within politics.co.uk. politics.co.uk does not endorse, edit, or attempt to balance the opinions expressed on this page. The content of press releases are wholly the responsibility of the originating company or organisation.

Latest press releases

UCU: Disharmony at work says survey on day of bullying conference

The University and College Union (UCU) today (Thursday) reveals that a culture of bullying and personal harassment in higher education is creating discord between work colleagues who complain of strained working relationships.

UCU response to Reform report on higher education

Responding to The Mobile Economy report from think tank Reform, the University and College Union (UCU) said today (Wednesday) that the report’s proposals would be bad for students and bad for the country.

UCU response to NUS/HSBC student survey

The University and College Union (UCU) said today (Tuesday) that it welcomed a survey from the National Union of Students (NUS) and HSBC bank that reveals the majority of students highly rate the quality of teaching they receive at university.

UCU response to new university plans

University and College Union (UCU) said it welcomed plans to open up higher education to more of the population but warned that contradictory government funding policy and the high price of studying could severely limit many people’s choice of degree.