§ Mr. Andrew TurnerTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what recent research she has commissioned on the relationship between participation in higher education and economic performance. [11031]
§ Margaret HodgeThe Department launched the Centre for the Economics of Education (CEE) in February 2000 to undertake research into the economics of education. This centre has published several studies that have examined the economic benefits from education, including higher education. This research shows that the economic benefits from participating in higher education are substantial. The Labour Force Survey shows that graduates now earn 35 per cent. more than the average salary. This differential reflects graduates' higher productivity. Research shows that the earnings gains enjoyed by graduates have been maintained during the expansion in HE during the last 25 years. This indicates the continued strong growth in the demand for graduates.