The Guardian view on raising university fees: help for poorer students must be prioritised | Editorial

With about 40% of England's universities suffering deficits and course closures, the rise in tuition fees is a response to a financial crisis threatening higher education.

Labour has accepted that the freeze on fees should end but also recognizes that the pressure on students is not tenable, leading to lowered foundation course fees.

The £9,535 fee is inflation-linked, a compromise from university bosses' suggestion of £12,500, aiming to alleviate some financial burdens on students and staff.

Since 2012, tuition fees have lost a third of their value in real terms, with debt increases psychologically affecting students, who face extended repayment terms.

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