Smith: Legal challenge is proof of SNP's shambles on higher education funding

The SNP's policy of charging students from the rest of the UK to study in Scotland is facing a legal challenge.

Liz Smith MSP, Scottish Conservative Education Spokesperson, said:

"This is yet further proof of the shambles which is the SNP's policy on higher education funding. I am not in the least bit surprised to hear there will be a legal challenge as there is a clear issue of discrimination against students from the rest of the UK, setting them apart from students from Scotland and the EU. This is grossly unfair to these individuals as well as a threat to the excellent reputation of our universities.

"It is also likely to distort the university admissions process. If Scottish universities have to look to fee-paying students in order to obtain greater income, then it sends a clear message that financial considerations matter more than academic merit.

"This problem is entirely the fault of the SNP Scottish Government. By refusing to admit the true extent of the funding gap, the SNP is damaging the future of our university system."

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