University leaders have launched their “manifesto” ahead of a likely UK general election this year, calling for political parties to increase tuition fees and protect the graduate visa.
In anticipation of voters going to the polls for a Westminster election later in 2024, Universities UK (UUK) has revealed its requests of an incoming government, which are aimed at increasing the contribution that higher education institutions make to individual and national opportunities and growth.
UUK, which represents 142 universities across the country, calls for a review of maintenance support – including the reinstatement of maintenance grants and the correction of maintenance loans to reflect real rates of inflation and to adjust the frozen household income threshold.
The organisation also wants the next government to return teaching investment per student to the equivalent of 2015-16 levels in England so those “with the aspiration and ability to go to university have a high-quality education and experience”.
