Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Christina Rees and Robert Goodwill

Monday 23rd January 2017 Commons Chamber

[Christina Rees (Neath) (Lab/Co-op)]

14. What representations she has received on the economic value to the UK of international students studying at universities.

[The Minister for Immigration (Mr Robert Goodwill)]

The Government recognise that international students make an important contribution during their time here and help to make our education system one of the best in the world. We are in regular contact with the sector, and there is no limit on the number of genuine international students who can come here to study in the UK.

[Christina Rees]

International students bring academic and cultural benefits to our universities, contribute billions of pounds to the economy, support the creation of tens of thousands of jobs and enable these institutions to innovate, build links with businesses and invest even more in every student in every region and country of the UK. Will the Minister assure the House that the Government have no plans to reduce the number of international students coming to every UK university, and tell us what steps they will take to increase numbers?

[Mr Goodwill]

I agree with the hon. Lady absolutely. As I mentioned, there is no limit on the number of students who can come here. Since 2010, we have seen a 17% increase in the number of university applications from outside the EU, while the Russell Group has seen an amazing 47% increase.