The Government
has welcomed Simon Hughes’s report on improving access to
education, which was published today.
Simon Hughes was appointed as the Advocate for Access to
Education by the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister in
December 2010 and was asked to report on how to promote access to
further and higher education.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said:
“Simon Hughes’s report has given the Government an invaluable
insight into young peoples’ reactions to the higher education
reforms after extensive consultation with them and their families.
It will help us meet our goal of improving access to higher
education.
“The student finance system being introduced in 2012 is fairer
for students and affordable for the country. Simon’s report has
underlined how important it is for everyone that works with young
people to make sure they understand the changes and can explain
them to ensure no one who is qualified and wishes to undertake
Higher Education is put off."
Universities and Science Minister David Willetts said:
“Education is key to transforming lives, delivering social
mobility and securing our nation’s future. So we agree with Simon
that young people must be supported in making well informed
decisions on university entrance, apprenticeships and other opportunities.
“Our student finance campaign and the new Independent Taskforce
on Student Finance have been focussed on helping young people and
those advising them. But the job is far from complete and I warmly
welcome Simon’s advice on how we can improve the reach of such work.”
Notes to Editors:
1. Simon Hughes letter of appointment can be viewed at http://www.dpm.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files_dpm/resources/Joint-letter-by-the-Prime-Minister-and-Deputy-Prime-Minister-28122010.pdf
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