Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, with reference to the review of post-18 education and funding, published on 19 February 2018, whether the requirement that recommendations be consistent with the Government’s fiscal policies will exclude recommendations that would require an increase in public sector net borrowing.

The review of post-18 education and funding will look at how we can ensure a joined-up education system that works for everyone and is accessible to all. The review will look at how we can ensure the system is supported by a funding system that provides value for money and works for students and taxpayers, incentivises choice and competition across the sector, and encourages the development of the skills that we need as a country, whilst maintaining the financial sustainability of a world-class higher education and research sector.

The case for changes to the post-18 education system and associated public spending impacts will be looked at as part of the review. This will be considered alongside existing budget lines and wider decision making processes on public spending, consistent with the government’s fiscal policies to reduce the deficit and have debt falling as a percentage of gross domestic product.

The government has appointed an external panel, comprising experts from across post-18 education and the business world that will consider the available evidence and engage with stakeholders to provide advice to inform the review. The panel will publish a report at an interim stage, before the government concludes the overall review in early 2019. We cannot prejudge the outcomes of the review.