Higher Education Funding

Debate between Lord Willetts and Jonathan Edwards

Wednesday 3rd November 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr Willetts]

I am not aware of any feature of the proposals which would lead to the cross-subsidy that concerns the hon. Gentleman.

[Jonathan Edwards (Carmarthen East and Dinefwr) (PC)]

Considering that higher education funding structures in Wales are more or less tied to those in England, following our adoption of top-up fees, what discussions has the Minister had with the Welsh Assembly Government concerning today’s announcement?

[Mr Willetts]

I have had discussions over the months with Leighton Andrews, who has described to me his proposals for Wales, where I know there is an ongoing debate about university financing. I hope to be able also to have a quick phone conversation with him about our proposals today and, of course, to keep in close touch.