Only Yes vote ensures free Scottish education 12/9/14
Sirs,
As a recent graduate of the Nicolson Institute I will commence the next phase of my education next week at Glasgow University. Like my sisters before me, I will be charged no tuition fees.
With five years of study until I graduate, I am painfully aware that a No vote in this month's referendum on independence will quickly lead to the introduction of such fees, which are currently £9,000 a year in England. This is because, while education policy and administration are under control of the Scottish Government, the funding is in the gift of Westminster.
Both Labour and Tories have already agreed to cuts of over £2.5bn in the Scottish block grant, with another £4.5bn being lost if and when the Barnett formula is removed – a policy favoured by both of these parties. This will make policies such as free tuition unaffordable, and lead to me having to cut short my education or face huge debts. In addition, Labour's Jim Murphy MP admitted on a TV debate last week that Labour would not rule out introducing tuition fees in Scotland if they are elected.
Anyone who is attending higher education, now or in the future, or who has children who intend to do so, should think very carefully before voting No to independence. Only a Yes vote can ensure Scottish education remains free and available to those who can benefit from it, not just those who can afford it.
Scott Duncan
52 Anderson Road
Stornoway
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