Why Vote Yes!

The current Student Finance System is less fair, although since its introduction more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds were likely to get university places, the class gap in participation rate still remained wide, therefore holding back aspiration, and giving little hope for those who wanted to climb the social ladder. According to current figures, there is still less than one in five from poorer backgrounds attending university against more than half form affluent areas.

Putting aside who ordered the Brown Review – but to call it “a lifelong crippling burden” is far from the truth and can be nothing but political gerrymandering and sensational headline making – nevertheless untrue. As for a Graduate Tax, well, any accountant worth their salt can make paying it history before the first pay cheque arrives.

On the other hand the proposed Tuition Fees, is a loan, it allows graduates to make payments of 9% of any earning over £21,000 per year – those on £30,000 will only pay £68 per month – and if earnings are not high enough to pay the loan it will be written off after 30 years. Furthermore, students from low income families well qualify for an annual non- repayment maintenance grant of £3,250, thus allowing those from poorer background equal opportunity and social mobility – a foot up the social ladder.

Universities need continues funding which can only happen if the available resources are used wisely. The proposed system is fair and logical; it promotes ambition by helping those from poorer backgrounds as well as allowing universities to be properly supported.