Universities: Financial Sustainability

Lord Foulkes of Cumnock Excerpts

Tuesday 21st May 2024 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

The Government recognise the importance of having a thriving higher education sector which is responsive to the needs of the economy and funded in a way that is fair to taxpayers. We have demonstrated that commitment via our £1.3 billion of capital funding that was announced in this spending review, which is to support universities with teaching and research in key STEM areas and supporting roles in the NHS. As my noble friend said, the Office for Students was clear that providers need to review their business model and that there are very different business models across the sector.

[Lord Foulkes of Cumnock (Lab Co-op)]

My Lords, has the Minister seen that even the Foreign Secretary contacted the Prime Minister to say that a curb on graduate visas could be devastating for universities? Next time she bumps into the Foreign Secretary, could she whisper in his ear that it is easier to cross the Floor of this House than it is down there?

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

I think the noble Lord is aware that the Government do not comment on leaks.