Debate on impact of COVID-19 and Brexit on Falkirk students

Westminster’s Scottish Affairs Committee will be probing the Scottish Government’s universities minister Richard Lochhead this week to assess the impact the coronavirus and Brexit has had on the country’s universities and their students.

By James Trimble

Published 26th Jan 2021, 07:40 BST

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Speaking before Thursday’s debate, a Scottish Affairs Committee spokesperson said: “Scottish Universities are facing financial headwinds as a result of reduced activity during the pandemic and the impending introduction of tuition fees for EU students potentially deterring them from enrolling.

“Meanwhile, earlier this month, students told the committee of the financial and mental strains COVID-19 and lockdown are causing. We are currently conducting an inquiry into the impact of these events and pre-existing issues in Scottish higher education.”

As well as questioning Mr Lochhead, Thursday’s evidence session will look at student welfare and support during the pandemic, the implications of Brexit on the sector, including the re-introduction of fees for EU students and the future of research and university funding in Scotland.

Covid-19 Brexit Falkirk Scottish Government

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