Students condemned to a lifetime of debt by Commons vote

Today's victory for Tony Blair's Labour Government in the debate on the Higher Education Bill is a a nail in the coffin of equal educational opportunities for all. Despite all the so-called concessions, grants and jiggery pokery put forward by the government in recent weeks students will still graduate with debts of up to £30,000 or even £64,ooo for medical students.

Commenting on the vote Totnes Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson, Mike Treleaven , said:

'It is a sad day when a Labour Government forces through legislation that will greatly increase the financial burden on students from poorer families and make money a factor in University choice. The pressure which has been brought to bear on Labour M.P.s has been immense and you have to question a system and party where elected representatives supporting a manifesto pledge are to all intents and purposes disciplined. We must never forget that this Labour Government fought the last election on a pledge not to introduce top up fees, and even to legislate to prevent this happening. The narrowness of the victory - 5 votes when the government has a majority of 161 - shows what a hollow victory this is.'

He continued:

' Unlike Michael Howard's Conservative Party who have admitted they have no idea how to fund further education, the Liberal Democrats have a viable, sensible and costed alternative to this disgraceful policy. We shall not give up the fight to abolish tuition fees altogether and give universities the extra funding they deserve through general taxation. Why do we fund primary and secondary education and yet balk at funding further education? The benefits to the community of well educated people are obvious and everyone should be able to take full advantage of their talents regardless of their background or finances. The bill that has been passed today will not only ensure graduates have huge debts, but deter those from poorer backgrounds from applying. It is a disgrace!'