Over 30 MPs and their young counterparts (Members of Youth Parliament) attended the launch of a mass consultation on tuition fees yesterday. The consultation, designed by young people for young people, is seeking the views of over 10,000 young people on university costs. The results of the consultation will launched at the House of Commons in March next year.

James Greenhalgh, Member of Youth Parliament for East Staffordshire, who organised the event said,

“Tuition fees are a joke – it is ridiculous that students should finish university with thousands of pounds of debt when the Government is encouraging us to save for our future.

“The day was a massive success and it was really fantastic that we had support from MPs from the three main political parties. We strongly urge the Government to listen to young people’s views and take action based upon them.”

Sarah Teather, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Innovation, Universities & Skills said, "I really admire the work of the UK Youth parliament. They do a great job in making sure that that young people's voices are heard up and down the country, and particularly here in Parliament. Young people have strong opinions on a whole range of issues, and the Government should listen to what they have to say."

Michael Fabricant, Conservative MP for Lichfield commented, “Many students are either deterred from going to university or suffer from financial hardship because of the student loan scheme. This is an issue which needs to be addressed and I hope the Government will not continue to maintain that all is well with the system.”

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