UCU response to MPs' report on value for money in universities

Responding to a report from the education select committee on value for money in universities, the University and College Union (UCU) said it welcomed the committee's call for the reintroduction of maintenance grants, better scrutiny of senior pay and perks and a clamp down on the use of unconditional offers.

However, the union said to deliver a fairer system for students there needed to be a proper overhaul of the system of funding with business finally contributing to the cost of university.

UCU head of policy and campaigns Matt Waddup said: 'It is encouraging the committee calls for the reintroduction of grants to help ease the financial burden of students whilst they study. But if we are truly to deliver a fairer system and value for money for students we need to look at the whole package of fees, loans and grants and the time has come for big business to start contributing to the cost of university.

'We are pleased that the committee is urging a clamp down on unconditional offers. We believe how students apply to university needs a radical overhaul so the UK can join the rest of the world and embrace a system where students are offered university places after they receive their results.

'The committee is right to highlight the damage excessive and unjustifiable pay for vice-chancellors has done. There must be far greater scrutiny of senior pay and perks in our universities.'