Plan 2 Student Loans: Repayment Terms

Baroness Deech Excerpts

Tuesday 17th March 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

In our manifesto we committed to raising teacher standards in higher education. Every student deserves the best possible quality from their investment. I am pleased to say that we are working closely with the education sector and providers to make sure that that quality is, first, across the board but also maintained.

[Baroness Deech (CB)]

Does the Minister agree that the situation has gone too far for tinkering? We need a fresh start. As I said yesterday, we need a Select Committee in this House on education. But does she agree that it is time for something radical, such as a graduate tax or complete exemption for those who repay their debt to society immediately—the students of medicine, teaching and nursing?

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

I always listen to the noble Baroness’s questions with interest. I do not think it would be right for me to pre-empt the ongoing discussions. I think there is a general recognition that something needs to change, but it has to be done in the spirit of fairness while maintaining access for all students and making sure, as I said at the outset, that it is fiscally responsible in a complex financial situation.