UCU response to new foreign student figures

UCU joint general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'The foreign market is a lucrative one for UK universities and our reputation for quality is one reason so many foreign students want to study here. It is absolutely vital that we do not undermine our international standing through an obsession with the market in higher education.

'Class sizes are extremely high and staff are being forced to provide even more for less. The overlooked pastoral work of particular staff - often over and above their normal duties - is crucial to helping foreign students. We need foreign students to extol the benefits of their university education in this country and that can only happen with proper investment in higher education.'

Commenting on the rise of students studying physical sciences, Sally Hunt said: 'We are pleased there has been a slight increase in the number of students studying physical sciences. Politicians, notably the prime minister and the chancellor, have spoken at length about the importance of science and technology to the future of the UK and its economy.

'We need vice-chancellors to back the sciences as well. Too often science degrees are viewed as too expensive and in recent years we have seen a spate of closures to save money in the short term.'