Welsh Government could raise uni fees after England move

THE Welsh Government has confirmed that it is to make an announcement on university tuition fees following a decision by the UK Government to raise them in England.

- ABBIE WIGHTWICK Education editor

As education is devolved it is for Cardiff Bay to set university fees in Wales, but ministers will be under pressure to follow suit with institutions facing a £77m-plus deficit.

University tuition fees in England are to rise with inflation every year from 2026 onwards, the UK Government has announced. Maintenance loans will also increase yearly in line with inflation for English home students.

Asked if it would now raise fees too a Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We are currently reviewing the UK Government's decision to increase tuition fee caps in England.

"We will provide clarity on the position in Wales to universities and students as soon as possible."

The comments follow a call from university bosses for an independent review of funding in Wales.

The spokesperson added: "The Welsh Government is committed to supporting Welsh universities as they meet the ongoing financial pressures facing the sector.

"We will announce our annual changes to maintenance support for students shortly."