Higher Education: New and Returning Students

Baroness Prashar Excerpts

Thursday 15th April 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

My Lords, such decisions are for universities, as autonomous institutions, to make in line with the guidance we have set out this week.

[Baroness Prashar (CB) [V]]

My Lords, would the Minister agree that the uncertainties of lockdown and this incomprehensible delay are having a negative impact on international students and the reputation of the UK as a place to come and study? What impact does he think this will have on the intake for 2021 and 2022?

[Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Con)]

Students around the world will have seen how UK universities have reacted admirably to the challenges posed by the pandemic, designing and delivering high-quality online learning and offering exceptional well-being and mental health support. The UK was one of the first countries to introduce immigration flexibility for students, and our new post-study work route, the graduate route, will launch on 1 July, further encouraging international students to choose to come and study in the UK.