HC Deb 12 February 2004 vol 417 c1550W
Mr. David

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales whether it is his policy that the Higher Education Bill should exempt English students studying in higher education institutions in Wales from payment of top-up fees. [153393]

Mr. Touhig

The provisions of the Higher Education Bill would transfer to the National Assembly for Wales responsibility for tuition fee levels in Welsh Institutions and student support for students resident in Wales.

The Assembly Education and Lifelong Learning Minister has given a commitment that variable fees will not be introduced in Wales during the lifetime of the present Assembly. Future policy with regard to tuition fees in Wales will be decided by the Assembly, following an independent review by Professor Teresa Rees.