Million Plus

The university think-tank million+ has commented on the report published today [Wednesday 13 August] by the Independent Commission on Fees and findings of the public opinion poll conducted by The Sutton Trust. The report and poll focus on access to higher education in England.

The think-tank has previously emphasised the importance of ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to study for a degree.

Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of the university think-tank million+ said:

“It is unnerving that such a disparate access gap still exists within universities: higher education should be accessible to all qualified to study, on the basis of merit and academic success and not background.

"We run the risk of not developing those with bright futures ahead of them who can contribute and strengthen the economy.

“Modern universities maintain high levels of access for students of all ages and creed yielding top quality graduates. It’s about time that politicians and policymakers shifted focus rather than perpetuate the myth that you have to study at a small group of universities to get on in life.

“With a downturn in the number of mature and part-time students and a climate of uncertainty about future funding it is more crucial than ever that surety around access is high on the agenda of the next government.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors
1. For further information or to arrange an interview, contact Rochelle Owusu- Antwi, Press and Communications Officer, million+ on 020 7717 1658 / 07527 336 795 or email press@millionplus.ac.uk.
2. million+ is a leading university think-tank. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk.
3. The full report can be found here and findings from the poll here