Government responds to Lib Dem calls for college funding

5.20.01pm GMT Fri 26th Feb 2010

Commenting on funding for colleges and Universities announced today, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Margaret Smith said:

“This is good news responding to Liberal Democrat demands in the recent Budget.

“A key plank of our Budget negotiations was improving access to college. As a result of Liberal Democrat action, 7,500 extra people will gain training and skills places.

“We want to make sure that there is not a ‘lost generation’ of young people left without choices during the recession.

“But college or University is not for everyone. As well as funding for further education places, the Government must make sure apprenticeships, paid internships and jobs for school leavers are made available.

“I would like to see colleges supporting students who are struggling to stay at college during difficult economic times.

“More people at college means hardship funds can be spread too thinly among those that need help most.”

“Liberal Democrats want to see a fair society where every young person gets the start in life they need.”