Stephen stressed the importance of FE Colleges and universities to rebuilding the economy and furthering social mobility. He outlined Liberal Democrat proposals to create parity of esteem between FE and HE students in the area of home based maintenance and a fair deal for students who study part time. Stephen reiterated the Lib Dems' commitment to abolish university tuition fees for a first degree. Due to tight public finances as a result of the recession this pledge would be delivered over six years, starting with students in their final year of study.
Stephen stressed that while opportunities for young people and improving skills for a low carbon high tech economy were going to be at the forefront of the Lib Dem 2010 general election campaign, he could not promise total protection for post compulsory education.
