Sir Menzies Campbell, Simon Hughes and Charles Kennedy lead Lib-Dem revolt on tuition fees

Revolt: Simon Hughes
10 April 2012
WEST END FINAL

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Liberal Democrat anger over tuition fee hikes boiled over today when a trio of senior party figures vowed to oppose the coalition Government's plans for university funding.

Former leaders Sir Menzies Campbell and Charles Kennedy joined current deputy leader Simon Hughes in urging their party to think again about controversial proposals to lift the current £3,290 cap on student fees.

Sir Menzies, who is the Chancellor of the University of St Andrews, said: "My credibilty would be shot to pieces if I did anything other than stick to the promises I made."

Deputy leader Mr Hughes said the Coalition should try to "improve" proposals from Lord Browne.

He said the party had to make the Browne plan "consistent" with its pre-election pledge to oppose fees. Former leader Mr Kennedy, who is Rector of Glasgow University, confirmed that he would vote against any rise in fees.

Lord Browne has left open the prospect that universities could charge up to £12,000 a year for some courses.

Ryan Wain, president of King's College student union, is leading a campaign for London students to receive bigger grants and loans to recognise the cost of living in the capital. Nadia Nuru, president of the Bangladesh society at King's, said many would not have been able to study if fees were higher.

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